Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'locust' depends on the specific insect and context. The most common term is バッタ (batta), which broadly refers to grasshoppers and locusts. For the swarming phase of locusts, トノサマバッタ (tonosamabatta) is used. In historical or biblical contexts, いなご (inago) is common. This guide helps you choose the right word.
Referring to the insect in everyday conversation, regardless of swarming behavior.
The most common and general term for grasshoppers and locusts. Used in daily life, children's books, and casual conversation. It does not distinguish between solitary and swarming phases.
庭でバッタを見つけた。
I found a grasshopper/locust in the garden.
バッタが草むらから飛び出した。
A grasshopper/locust jumped out of the grass.
Specifically refers to locusts, especially those that swarm and are historically known as agricultural pests. Also used for the edible locusts in some regional cuisines. More formal or literary than バッタ.
イナゴの大群が作物を食い荒らした。
A swarm of locusts devoured the crops.
イナゴの佃煮は珍味だ。
Locust tsukudani is a delicacy.
Specifically referring to the migratory locust species or its swarming phase.
The migratory locust (Locusta migratoria), known for forming swarms. This is the scientific and common name for the species. Literally 'lord grasshopper'.
トノサマバッタが大発生した。
There was a massive outbreak of migratory locusts.
A technical or literary term for swarming locusts. Rarely used in everyday speech.
飛蝗が空を覆った。
The locusts covered the sky.
Referring to locusts in the context of the biblical plague or historical famines.
The standard term used in Japanese translations of the Bible for the plague of locusts. Also used in historical accounts of locust plagues.
聖書に出てくるいなごの災い。
The plague of locusts in the Bible.
Referring to locusts as food, a traditional dish in some regions.
When used in culinary contexts, イナゴ specifically refers to locusts prepared as food, often cooked in soy sauce and sugar (tsukudani).
イナゴの佃煮をご飯にのせて食べた。
I ate locust tsukudani on rice.
バッタ is the general term for grasshoppers and locusts, while イナゴ specifically refers to locusts, especially those that swarm or are eaten. In everyday conversation, バッタ is more common. Use イナゴ for swarms, plagues, or food.
子供がバッタを捕まえた。
The child caught a grasshopper.
イナゴが田んぼに大量発生した。
Locusts infested the rice paddies in large numbers.