災害
A disaster or calamity that causes extensive damage to lives, property, or the environment. It often refers to natural events like earthquakes and floods, but can also include large-scale accidents caused by human activity.
Examples
3 of 5災害に備えて、水を準備します。
I will prepare water in case of a disaster.
大規模な災害が発生した際、迅速な対応が求められます。
When a large-scale disaster occurs, a swift response is required.
最近、災害が多いね。
There have been a lot of disasters lately, haven't there?
Word Family
Memory Tip
The first kanji 災 contains the 'fire' (火) radical, and the second 害 means 'harm.' Think of a 'harmful fire' or 'flood' destroying a home.
Quick Quiz
大きな____に備えて、避難場所を確認しておきましょう。
Correct!
The correct answer is: 災害
Examples
災害に備えて、水を準備します。
everydayI will prepare water in case of a disaster.
大規模な災害が発生した際、迅速な対応が求められます。
formalWhen a large-scale disaster occurs, a swift response is required.
最近、災害が多いね。
informalThere have been a lot of disasters lately, haven't there?
地球温暖化は自然災害の頻度を高める一因である。
academicGlobal warming is one factor increasing the frequency of natural disasters.
弊社は災害時の事業継続計画を策定しています。
businessOur company is formulating a business continuity plan for times of disaster.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
災害に見舞われる
to be hit by a disaster
災害が発生する
a disaster occurs
人災
man-made disaster
Often Confused With
Saigai refers to the event itself (the disaster), while Higai refers to the specific damage or harm suffered by people or things.
Jiko usually refers to smaller-scale accidents (like a car crash), whereas Saigai refers to large-scale calamities.
Usage Notes
Saigai is a formal and general term used for major events that disrupt society. In Japan, it is most frequently used in the context of natural phenomena like earthquakes and tsunamis.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'saigai' for minor personal accidents; use 'jiko' or 'shippai' for those instead.
Memory Tip
The first kanji 災 contains the 'fire' (火) radical, and the second 害 means 'harm.' Think of a 'harmful fire' or 'flood' destroying a home.
Word Origin
Derived from Middle Chinese, where '災' represents a calamity (often fire or flood) and '害' represents harm or injury.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
Due to its geography, Japan has a highly developed culture of disaster awareness, with national disaster prevention days and widespread emergency kits.
Quick Quiz
大きな____に備えて、避難場所を確認しておきましょう。
Correct!
The correct answer is: 災害
Related Vocabulary
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