Translation guide
The English phrase "great war" most commonly refers to World War I, but can also describe any large-scale or significant war. In Japanese, the direct translation is 大戦 (taisen), but the specific reference to WWI is often 第一次世界大戦 (Daiichiji Sekai Taisen). This guide covers how to express the concept naturally.
When you want to talk about the historical event known as the Great War, i.e., World War I.
The standard, formal name for World War I. Used in history books, news, and everyday conversation.
第一次世界大戦は1914年に始まった。
World War I began in 1914.
Often used in compounds or when context makes it clear you mean WWI. Can sound slightly literary or abbreviated.
大戦中、多くの国が関与した。
During the Great War, many countries were involved.
An abbreviated form, less common than 第一次世界大戦 but understood. Used in some historical contexts.
第一次大戦の講和条約はベルサイユで調印された。
The peace treaty of the First World War was signed at Versailles.
When you want to describe a war that is great in scale, importance, or impact, not specifically WWI.
The direct translation. Used for major wars like the Napoleonic Wars or hypothetical future conflicts.
ナポレオン大戦はヨーロッパ全土を巻き込んだ。
The Napoleonic Great War engulfed all of Europe.
A more colloquial way to say 'big war'. Less formal than 大戦.
あの国では大きな戦争が何年も続いている。
A great war has been going on in that country for years.
Literally 'large-scale war'. More descriptive and formal than 大きな戦争.
大規模な戦争は世界経済に深刻な影響を与える。
A great war has a serious impact on the global economy.
When 'great war' is used figuratively, e.g., a great war against disease, or in fictional contexts.
A literary or dramatic phrase meaning 'great battle/fight'. Suitable for epic or metaphorical contexts.
これは悪に対する大いなる戦いだ。
This is a great war against evil.
Emphatic form of 'war', often used in fiction or exaggeration. Can sound like 'epic war'.
宇宙で大戦争が勃発した。
A great war broke out in space.
大戦 (taisen) specifically implies a war of great scale or historical significance, while 戦争 (sensou) is the general word for 'war'. Use 大戦 for world wars or similarly massive conflicts.
第二次世界大戦は人類史上最大の大戦だった。
World War II was the greatest war in human history.
Calling a minor conflict 大戦 sounds sarcastic or mistaken. Stick to 戦争 or 紛争 (funso, dispute/conflict) for smaller-scale wars.