天気 — meaning in English: weather

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天気

tenki

状況

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 天気 in everyday conversations, such as when discussing the forecast with friends or family. For example, you might hear someone say, '今日は天気がいいですね' ('The weather is nice today'), typically during morning chats or before planning outdoor activities.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 気候 (きこう, kikō), which refers to climate rather than weather. While 天気 is used for current weather conditions, 気候 describes long-term atmospheric trends, so use 天気 when discussing the day's forecast and 気候 for broader discussions about seasonal patterns.

Culture

The kanji 天気 literally translates to 'heavenly energy,' which reflects how weather is regarded as a natural force in Japanese culture. In Japan, the weather can significantly impact daily life, influencing everything from festivals to agriculture, highlighting its importance in Japanese society.

FAQ

Q.How do you use 天気 in a sentence?

You can use 天気 in a sentence to describe the weather, for example, '今日の天気は雨です' ('Today's weather is rain'). This is a simple way to communicate about the day's conditions.

Q.What is the difference between 天気 and 天候?

While both words relate to weather, 天気 (tenki) refers to the day-to-day state of the atmosphere, whereas 天候 (tenkō) can imply a broader, more formal discussion about weather patterns over time.

Q.Is 天気 used in formal writing?

Yes, 天気 can be used in both casual and formal contexts, but for more formal writing, such as reports or academic papers, you might consider using 気候 or 天候 to convey a more educated tone.

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