Translation guide
The most common Japanese word for grasshopper is バッタ. There are also specific words for certain types, like キリギリス for katydid or long-horned grasshopper, and イナゴ for locust or rice grasshopper. In everyday conversation, バッタ is the safest choice.
Referring to a grasshopper in general, the common insect.
The most common and general word for grasshopper. Used in everyday speech and writing.
公園でバッタを見つけた。
I found a grasshopper in the park.
バッタが草むらから飛び出した。
A grasshopper jumped out of the grass.
Often refers to locusts or rice grasshoppers, but can be used for grasshoppers in general, especially in rural or agricultural contexts. Sometimes eaten as food.
田んぼに蝗がたくさんいる。
There are many grasshoppers in the rice field.
Specifically referring to a katydid or a grasshopper with long antennae.
Refers to katydids or long-horned grasshoppers. Often associated with autumn and its chirping sound.
夜になるとキリギリスが鳴き始める。
At night, the katydids start chirping.
Specifically referring to a locust or a grasshopper that swarms and damages crops.
Typically refers to locusts or rice grasshoppers, especially those that swarm. Also used for the edible grasshopper dish.
イナゴの大群が作物を食い荒らした。
A swarm of locusts devoured the crops.
バッタ is the general term for grasshopper. イナゴ often refers to locusts or rice grasshoppers, especially those that swarm. キリギリス refers to katydids or long-horned grasshoppers. In casual conversation, バッタ is usually sufficient unless you need to be specific.
これはバッタですか、それともイナゴですか。
Is this a grasshopper or a locust?