Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Weather" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "weather", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
天候
てんこう (tenkou)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
お天気
おてんき (otenki)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "weather" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 天候 and お天気.
In Japanese, 天候 (てんこう (tenkou)) is typically associated with "weather; atmospheric conditions" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Refers to general weather conditions over a period. Often used in formal contexts or news. Similar to 天気.
On the other hand, お天気 (おてんき (otenki)) maps to "weather" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Polite way to say 天気. A literal translation of "weather" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "天候"
今日の天候はとてもいいです。
Today's weather is very good.
Bilingual Context for "お天気"
今日のお天気はとてもいいですね。
Today's weather is very nice, isn't it?
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "今日の ＿＿＿ はとてもいいです。" (Meaning: "Today's weather is very good.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "天候" fits here because it means "weather; atmospheric conditions" in the context of: "Today's weather is very good.". "お天気" represents "weather".