Translation guide
The process by which a seed, spore, or other reproductive body begins to grow and develop, typically after a period of dormancy.
The biological process of a seed sprouting and beginning to grow into a plant.
The beginning or early development of an idea, feeling, or social movement.
発芽 is the technical term used in science and agriculture, while 芽が出る is the everyday expression. Use 発芽 in formal writing or when discussing germination rates, conditions, etc. Use 芽が出る in casual conversation about plants sprouting.
For the figurative sense of 'germination' (of ideas, love, etc.), 芽生え is the most natural choice. 萌芽 is more literary and often used for historical or intellectual movements.
Proper temperature and moisture are necessary for seed germination.
この種は発芽率が高い。
These seeds have a high germination rate.
A common, everyday expression meaning 'to sprout' or 'to bud'. More colloquial than 発芽.
植えた種から芽が出た。
The seeds I planted have sprouted.
じゃがいもから芽が出ている。
The potatoes are sprouting.
The verb form of 発芽, used in formal or technical contexts.
種子は春になると発芽する。
The seeds germinate in spring.
Literary or technical term for germination or budding, often used metaphorically for the beginning of something.
春の萌芽の季節。
The season of spring germination.
Literally 'sprouting', used figuratively for the birth or awakening of feelings, ideas, or talents.
彼の中に芸術への芽生えがあった。
There was a germination of artistic interest within him.
恋の芽生えを感じた。
I felt the first stirrings of love.
Used figuratively for the early signs or beginnings of something, often in intellectual or social contexts.
近代科学の萌芽はルネサンス期に見られる。
The germination of modern science can be seen in the Renaissance period.