Translation guide
The English word 'ferment' can refer to a biological process, a state of agitation, or the act of causing change. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
To undergo or cause fermentation, as in food or drink production.
The standard term for fermentation. Used for both intentional (e.g., brewing) and natural processes.
ワインはブドウを発酵させて作ります。
Wine is made by fermenting grapes.
To be in a state of excitement, turmoil, or unrest, often among people.
Literally 'to boil', metaphorically used for emotions or situations reaching a peak of excitement or anger.
街は抗議デモで沸騰していた。
The city was fermenting with protest demonstrations.
To stir up, foment, or instigate something, often trouble or revolution.
To incite or agitate people, often for political or social action.
彼は民衆を扇動して反乱を起こさせた。
He fermented a rebellion by inciting the people.
When 'ferment' means social or emotional unrest, do not use 発酵する. Use words like 沸騰する or 騒然とする instead.
発酵 (fermentation) is desirable, like in making bread or alcohol. 腐敗 (putrefaction) is undesirable spoilage. Use 発酵 for intentional processes.
This cheese has been fermented for a long time.
Alternate kanji for 発酵, less common but seen in older texts or specific contexts.
味噌は大豆を醗酵させて作ります。
Miso is made by fermenting soybeans.
Specifically refers to brewing alcoholic beverages like sake, beer, or wine.
日本酒は米を醸造して作られます。
Sake is made by brewing rice.
Means to rot or spoil, often used for unwanted fermentation. Not a direct equivalent for intentional fermentation.
Implies spoilage, not desirable fermentation. Use only for negative contexts.
牛乳が腐敗して酸っぱくなった。
The milk fermented and turned sour.
Describes a noisy, agitated state; often used for crowds or public places.
会場は騒然となった。
The venue was in a ferment.
Literally 'an uneasy atmosphere hangs', used to describe a situation that feels like it might erupt into unrest.
国内には不穏な空気が漂っていた。
The country was in a state of ferment.
Means to be shaken or disturbed, often emotionally. Can describe a ferment of feelings.
彼の心は動揺していた。
His mind was in a ferment.
General term for causing something to happen, including trouble or unrest.
その事件が社会不安を引き起こした。
The incident fermented social unrest.
Literally 'to brew', metaphorically used for gradually creating an atmosphere or mood, often negative.
不信感が醸成されていった。
A feeling of distrust was fermented.