Translation guide
The English phrase "high water" can refer to the peak of a tide, a flood stage, or metaphorically to a high point or crisis. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for these meanings.
The highest level of the sea during a tidal cycle.
Standard term for high tide, used in weather forecasts and everyday conversation.
A high water level in a river or lake, often causing flooding.
A peak moment of difficulty, success, or intensity, as in 'high water mark'.
Directly translating 'high water' as 高い水 (takai mizu) is unnatural and not used in Japanese. Use the context-appropriate terms above.
今日の満潮は午後3時です。
High tide today is at 3 p.m.
Often used for a storm surge or abnormally high tide, especially in disaster contexts.
台風で高潮が発生した。
A storm surge occurred due to the typhoon.
Describes the state of the tide being high, literally 'the tide is full'.
今、潮が満ちているから泳ぐのは危ない。
It's dangerous to swim now because the tide is high.
General term for rising water levels in rivers or lakes, often used in warnings.
大雨で川が増水している。
The river is rising due to heavy rain.
Refers to flooding or water overflow, often used in news reports.
この地域では毎年出水がある。
This area has flooding every year.
Specifically means 'flood', but can be used when water reaches a dangerous high level.
川の水が堤防を越えて洪水になった。
The river water overflowed the embankment and caused a flood.
Means 'climax' or 'peak', used for the height of excitement, tension, or activity.
祭りは最高潮に達した。
The festival reached its peak.
Refers to the zenith or summit, often used for the peak of one's career or powers.
彼は人気の絶頂にあった。
He was at the peak of his popularity.
Loanword from English, commonly used for peak levels in various contexts.
交通量は朝8時がピークだ。
Traffic volume peaks at 8 a.m.