Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to express temperatures in Japanese. Whether you’re learning the language for travel, communication, or pure curiosity, knowing how to discuss the weather is a great way to start! In this guide, we will teach you both formal and informal ways to express temperatures in Japanese, highlighting any regional variations where necessary. So, let’s dive in and explore the fascinating world of Japanese temperature expressions!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
1. Using the word “Kion” (気温):
When talking about weather temperatures in a formal setting or using more academic context, you can use the word “Kion” followed by the specific temperature. For instance:
Example: Kyou no kion wa 20-do desu. (今日の気温は20度です。) – Today’s temperature is 20 degrees.
2. Combining numbers with “Do” (度):
Another formal way to express temperatures in Japanese involves combining the number followed by the counter word “Do” (度). This construction is similar to using degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius in English. For instance:
Example: Kyou wa 30-do arimashita. (今日は30度ありました。) – Today it was 30 degrees.
Informal Expressions:
1. Simple usage of “Do” (度):
When talking casually or with friends, you can drop the counter word “Do” and simply state the temperature. It is important to note that this form of expression is more common in everyday conversations rather than formal settings. For example:
Example: Kyo wa sanjuu. (今日は30。) – Today is 30 degrees.
2. Adding “Do Desu” (度です):
In informal situations, you may also add “Do desu” (度です) after the temperature to make it more polite. This helps maintain a friendly and respectful tone while still conveying the information casually. Here’s an example:
Example: Kyou wa 35-desu. (今日は35です。) – Today it’s about 35 degrees.
Regional Variations:
While the previous expressions are widely used across Japan, it’s worth noting that certain regions may have unique ways to discuss temperatures. Here are a few examples:
1. Kansai/Kinki Dialect:
In the Kansai region, people often use the word “Ma” (摩) when discussing temperatures. This word is equivalent to “Do” (度) and can be used interchangeably. For instance:
Example: Kyou wa 30-ma datta ne. (今日は30摩だったね。) – Today it was 30 degrees.
2. Hokkaido Dialect:
In the Hokkaido region, due to the chilly climate, temperatures are often expressed in negative numbers. This unique feature represents the region’s colder weather compared to other parts of Japan. For example:
Example: Kyou wa -10-do jyama shimashita. (今日は-10度寒かった。) – Today it was -10 degrees.
Tips for Discussing Temperatures in Japanese:
1. Use Particles “Wa” and “O” Correctly:
When stating the temperature, use the particle “Wa” (は) to mark the subject of the sentence. Additionally, if you want to emphasize the temperature, use the particle “O” (を) before the number. For example:
Example: Kyonen no saikou kion wa 35-do deshita. (去年の最高気温は35度でした。) – Last year’s highest temperature was 35 degrees.
2. Pay Attention to Contextual Clues:
It’s crucial to consider the context when discussing temperatures. In certain situations, people might refer to specific seasons, months, or areas to clarify the timing or location of the temperature mentioned. Remember to use appropriate vocabulary and expressions to provide the necessary context. For instance:
Example: Fuyu no saikou kion wa sankyu-do gurai datta yo. (冬の最高気温は30度くらいだったよ。) – In winter, the highest temperature was around 30 degrees.
Conclusion:
Congratulations! Now you have a better understanding of how to express temperatures in Japanese. Whether you need to talk about the weather in a formal or casual setting, you can confidently use the provided expressions, paying attention to specific regional variations if necessary. Remember to adapt your language based on social context, and don’t forget to incorporate appropriate particles and contextual clues to enhance communication. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll become a pro at discussing temperatures in Japanese! Stay curious and enjoy exploring the language further!
