expression, noun
algal bloom; water bloom
Refers to the phenomenon of rapid algae growth in water, often seen as a greenish layer on the surface.
See also: 青粉
夏になると池に水の華が発生する。
In summer, algal blooms appear in the pond.
expression, noun
lotus flower
Literally 'water flower'; used poetically for lotus flowers blooming on water.
池に咲く水の花が美しい。
The lotus flowers blooming on the pond are beautiful.
expression, noun
Japanese sea bass
Archaic female term for Japanese sea bass (スズキ). Rarely used in modern Japanese.
See also: スズキ
昔、女性はスズキのことを「水の花」と呼んだ。
In the past, women called the Japanese sea bass 'water flower'.
Compound of 水 (water) + の (possessive particle) + 華/花 (flower). The meaning 'algal bloom' is a metaphorical extension of 'water flower', while the archaic fish name likely derives from a poetic association.