集中豪雨
shūchū gōu
The English phrase "cloudburst" is translated into Japanese as 集中豪雨 (shūchū gōu).
集中豪雨 refers to a sudden heavy rainstorm. It is a term frequently used in weather reports and news media to describe localized, intense rainfall that can lead to flooding.
Meaning: sudden heavy rainstorm (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
集中豪雨 is composed of 集中 (shūchū), meaning concentration or focus and 豪雨 (gōu), meaning heavy or torrential rain.
Which one should you use?
While 集中豪雨 is the standard term for a heavy rainstorm, there are colloquial and informal alternatives. ゲリラ豪雨 (guerrilla heavy rain) is a common colloquial way to describe a sudden, unpredictable and intense cloudburst. ドカ雨 is an informal way to describe a cloudburst.
How do you pronounce it?
shūchū gōu
Did you know?
- The word 豪雨 (heavy rain) is often paired with the verb 降る (furu), but when describing a devastating cloudburst, the term 襲う (osou), meaning 'to attack', is frequently used.
- The word 豪 in 豪雨 is the same character used in 豪華 (gōka), meaning 'gorgeous' or 'luxurious'. It implies a scale that is overwhelming or extravagant.
- While 集中豪雨 describes the rain, Japanese weather forecasts often warn of 線状降水帯 (senjō kōsui tai), which refers to a 'linear precipitation zone' that causes these bursts.
Examples in context
- 今日のドカ雨はやばかった！Today's cloudburst was insane!
- 集中豪雨に注意してください。shūchū gōu ni chūi shite kudasai.Please watch out for sudden heavy rainstorms.
- 集中豪雨で道路が冠水した。shūchū gōu de dōro ga kansui shita.The roads flooded due to a sudden heavy rainstorm.
Example conversation
Two people are checking the weather report on their phones.
- 陽太 Yota今日の午後は集中豪雨になるらしいよ。kyō no gogo wa shūchū gōu ni naru rashii yo.It looks like there will be a sudden heavy rainstorm this afternoon.
- 美咲 Misaki本当？傘を持って行かないとね。hontō? kasa o motte ikanai to ne.Really? I'll have to bring an umbrella.
- 陽太 Yota美咲、外出する時は気をつけて。misaki, gaishutsu suru toki wa ki o tsukete.Misaki, be careful when you go out.
- 美咲 Misakiありがとう、陽太。気を付けるね。arigatō, yōta. ki o tsukeru ne.Thanks, Yota. I'll be careful.
