Guide: How to Say Cold Weather in Japanese

When it comes to discussing the weather in Japanese, it’s important to know the appropriate expressions for different occasions and social settings. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to say “cold weather” in Japanese, as well as provide some tips, examples, and regional variations. So, let’s dive in!

Formal Expressions:

In formal situations, such as when speaking with someone older or in a professional setting, it’s best to use polite language. Here are some formal expressions for “cold weather” in Japanese:

1. 寒い天気 (samui tenki)

This is the most straightforward way to say “cold weather” in Japanese. It can be used in any formal context and is widely understood.

2. 寒冷な気候 (kanrei na kikō)

This expression emphasizes the coldness of the weather and is particularly suitable for formal or scientific discussions about the climate.

Informal Expressions:

In casual conversations with friends, family, or peers, you can use more relaxed language to describe the weather. Here are a couple of informal expressions you can use:

1. 寒い (samui)

This is the simplest and most commonly used word to describe “cold” in Japanese. It can be used on its own to convey that it’s cold outside.

2. 寒いね (samui ne)

Informally, this expression is used to agree with someone when they mention how cold it is. It’s similar to saying “Yeah, it’s cold!” in English.

Regional Variations:

While the expressions mentioned above are widely understood throughout Japan, there are some regional variations that you might come across. Here are a few:

1. 涼しい (suzushii)

This word is commonly used in the Kansai region of Japan to describe cool or refreshing weather. It can sometimes be used to express “cold” as well.

2. ひえひえ (hiehie)

This expression is used in some parts of Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, to describe extremely chilly weather. It emphasizes the feeling of being freezing cold.

Tips and Examples:

Here are some additional tips and examples to help you further:

• Layer up: When it’s cold outside, Japanese people often layer their clothing to stay warm. You might hear them say “暖かく着込む (atatakaku kigomu)” which means “to dress warmly.”
• Seasonal greetings: In winter, it’s common to greet someone with “寒いですね (samui desu ne),” which means “It’s cold, isn’t it?” This small talk can help you bond with Japanese speakers.
• Be aware of keigo (polite language): If you’re speaking to someone in a higher position, using humble language and keigo is appropriate. You can say “寒さが厳しいですね (samusa ga kibishii desu ne),” which means “The cold is severe, isn’t it?”.

Let’s take a look at a few examples of how you can use the expressions mentioned above:

Example 1:

A: 今日は寒い天気ですね (Kyō wa samui tenki desu ne).

B: そうですね、コートが必要ですね (Sō desu ne, kōto ga hitsuyō desu ne).

Translation:

A: “It’s cold today, isn’t it?”

B: “Yes, it is. You need a coat.”

Example 2:

A: 明日の天気予報は寒冷な気候だそうです (Ashita no tenki yohō wa kanrei na kikō da sō desu).

B: 本当ですか？ちょっと心配ですね (Hontō desu ka? Chotto shinpai desu ne).

Translation:

A: “Tomorrow’s weather forecast says it will be cold.”

B: “Really? I’m a bit worried.”