梅雨を英語で説明・紹介するための基本情報と、英会話に役立つ表現をシンプルでわかりやすい英語で紹介します。
英会話ダイアローグ・関連情報・10の質問を通して、梅雨に関する英語表現を学びます。
英語
英会話ダイアローグを読む前に知っておくと良い前提知識と情報は以下の通りです。
- 梅雨の時期と期間
- 梅雨（つゆ）は、日本の春の終わりから夏の始まりにかけての時期に見られる長期間の降雨の季節です。通常、沖縄では5月下旬、本州では6月初旬に始まり、7月中旬から下旬に終わります。
- 気象的特徴
- 梅雨の期間中は、頻繁に強い雨が降り、湿度が非常に高くなります。この高湿度により、実際の気温以上に暑く感じることがあります。
- 農業への影響
- 梅雨の雨は農業にとって非常に重要です。特に稲作においては、田んぼに必要な水を提供します。しかし、過剰な雨は洪水のリスクを高めるため、農家は適切な排水管理が求められます。
- 日常生活への影響
- 高湿度と頻繁な降雨により、洗濯物が乾きにくくなったり、家の中にカビが発生しやすくなります。また、大雨による交通の遅延や混乱も日常生活に影響を与えます。
- 梅雨の楽しみ方
- 梅雨の時期には、あじさいの庭園を訪れることが人気です。雨に濡れたあじさいは特に美しく見えます。また、博物館や美術館を訪れたり、カフェでリラックスすることもおすすめです。さらに、陶芸などの伝統工芸のワークショップに参加するのも楽しい活動です。
- 名前の由来
- 「梅雨」という名前は、梅が熟す時期と重なるため「梅の雨」と書かれます。この言葉は中国語の「梅雨」（méiyǔ）から来ており、同じ季節現象を指しています。
日本の梅雨について話しています。
梅雨の時期や特徴、農業への影響、日常生活への影響、梅雨の楽しみ方を話題にしています。
また、梅雨の名前の由来や梅雨の期間中に人気のあるアクティビティ、湿気やカビの対策についても触れています。
会話 / dialogue
Hey Key, I heard the Japan Meteorological Agency announced that the rainy season has started. Can you tell me more about it?
Sure, Mack. The rainy season, or “tsuyu,” usually begins in late May in Okinawa and early June in mainland Japan. It lasts until mid to late July.
Oh, so it’s going to rain a lot, right?
Yes, during tsuyu, it rains frequently and heavily. The humidity is also very high, making it feel warmer than it actually is. But it’s essential for the rice paddies and other crops.
That makes sense. Why do they call it “tsuyu”?
Good question. “Tsuyu” means “plum rain” in Japanese. It’s named this way because it coincides with the time when plums ripen. The term actually comes from the Chinese word “梅雨” (méiyǔ).
Interesting! What are some typical activities people do during the rainy season?
Many people visit hydrangea gardens. The flowers are in full bloom and look beautiful in the rain. You can also visit museums or art galleries, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in a cozy café, or try indoor activities like pottery workshops.
I’ve seen those hydrangeas. They are really pretty. Does the rain affect daily life a lot?
Yes, it does. Transportation can be disrupted due to flooding, and the high humidity can cause mold in homes. Drying clothes also takes longer.
That sounds challenging. But I guess it’s also cooler compared to the rest of the summer?
Exactly. The temperatures are lower, which is a relief before the intense summer heat. It’s a good time to enjoy some indoor relaxation too.
How do farmers deal with the rainy season?
The rain is actually beneficial for farmers, especially for rice paddies that need a lot of water. However, they need to manage excess water to prevent flooding and protect their crops from diseases that thrive in humid conditions.
I see. Any tips for staying comfortable during tsuyu?
Using a dehumidifier can help with the humidity. Ventilating your home is also important. And don’t forget to check the weather forecast regularly to avoid getting caught in heavy rain.
Great advice, Key. I’ll make sure to stay prepared. Thanks for explaining all this to me!
Anytime, Mack. Enjoy the rainy season and stay dry!
関連情報 / related information
「梅雨」について、理解を深めるための「英語での関連情報」です。
梅雨
Timing and Duration
The rainy season in Japan, called “tsuyu,” occurs from late spring to early summer. It usually starts in late May in Okinawa and early June in mainland Japan, lasting until mid to late July. This period is characterized by frequent and heavy rains.
Weather Characteristics
During tsuyu, the humidity is very high, making it feel warmer than it actually is. The rain can be very intense, sometimes leading to flooding. The high humidity also means that clothes take longer to dry and mold can grow more easily in homes.
Impact on Agriculture
The rainy season is crucial for Japanese agriculture. The rain provides necessary water for rice paddies and other crops. However, farmers must manage water levels carefully to prevent flooding and protect their crops from diseases that thrive in humid conditions.
Effect on Daily Life
Tsuyu affects daily life in many ways. Transportation can be disrupted by heavy rain, causing delays. High humidity can make homes damp and uncomfortable, and mold can become a problem. People often need to use dehumidifiers and ventilate their homes well.
Enjoying Tsuyu
Despite the challenges, there are enjoyable aspects of tsuyu. Visiting hydrangea gardens is popular, as the flowers bloom beautifully during this season. People also visit museums, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Indoor activities like pottery workshops are also a good way to spend rainy days.
Origin of the Name
“Tsuyu” means “plum rain” because it coincides with the time when plums ripen. The term comes from the Chinese word “梅雨” (méiyǔ), reflecting the same seasonal phenomenon. Understanding tsuyu helps in appreciating its impact on Japanese life and culture.
10の質問 / 10 questions
「梅雨」について、理解を深めるための「英語での10の質問」です。
1: What is tsuyu?
Tsuyu is the Japanese term for the rainy season that typically occurs from late May to mid or late July. During this time, Japan experiences frequent and heavy rain, as well as high humidity.
2: Why is tsuyu called "plum rain"?
Tsuyu is called "plum rain" because it coincides with the ripening of plums in Japan. The name comes from the Chinese term "梅雨" (méiyǔ), which also refers to the rainy season.
3: When does tsuyu start and end?
Tsuyu usually begins in late May in Okinawa and early June in mainland Japan. It typically lasts until mid or late July, depending on the region.
4: How does tsuyu affect daily life in Japan?
During tsuyu, the high humidity and frequent rain can disrupt transportation, make clothes take longer to dry, and cause mold growth in homes. People often need to adjust their activities accordingly.
5: How does the rainy season benefit agriculture?
The rainy season is essential for crops like rice, as it provides the water necessary for growth. However, farmers must carefully manage the water to prevent flooding and protect crops from diseases caused by humidity.
6: What activities can people enjoy during tsuyu?
Many people visit hydrangea gardens, as the flowers bloom beautifully in the rain. Others enjoy indoor activities such as visiting museums, cafes, or participating in workshops like pottery making.
7: How can people cope with the high humidity during tsuyu?
People often use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture in their homes. Ventilating rooms and checking the weather forecast to avoid being caught in heavy rain are also important during tsuyu.
8: What challenges does tsuyu bring to homes?
High humidity can lead to mold growth in homes and damp environments. Keeping rooms well-ventilated and using dehumidifiers can help prevent these issues.
9: Why do hydrangeas bloom during the rainy season?
Hydrangeas thrive in the moist, rainy environment of tsuyu. Their bright, colorful flowers bloom beautifully during this season, making them a symbol of the rainy season in Japan.
10: How does tsuyu affect transportation in Japan?
Heavy rain during tsuyu can cause delays and disruptions in transportation, particularly for trains and buses. Flooding and road closures are also common in some areas.
和訳付
会話 / dialogue
Hey Key, I heard the Japan Meteorological Agency announced that the rainy season has started. Can you tell me more about it?
ねえキー、気象庁が梅雨入りを発表したって聞いたけど、もっと教えてくれない？
Sure, Mack. The rainy season, or “tsuyu,” usually begins in late May in Okinawa and early June in mainland Japan. It lasts until mid to late July.
もちろんだよ、マック。梅雨は「つゆ」と呼ばれていて、沖縄では5月下旬、本州では6月初旬に始まることが多いんだ。7月中旬から下旬まで続くよ。
Oh, so it’s going to rain a lot, right?
そうなんだ。じゃあ、雨がたくさん降るんだね？
Yes, during tsuyu, it rains frequently and heavily. The humidity is also very high, making it feel warmer than it actually is. But it’s essential for the rice paddies and other crops.
そう、梅雨の間は頻繁に大雨が降るよ。湿度もとても高くて、実際よりも暑く感じるんだ。でも、これは稲作や他の作物にとって必要なんだ。
That makes sense. Why do they call it “tsuyu”?
なるほどね。どうして「つゆ」って呼ぶの？
Good question. “Tsuyu” means “plum rain” in Japanese. It’s named this way because it coincides with the time when plums ripen. The term actually comes from the Chinese word “梅雨” (méiyǔ).
いい質問だね。「つゆ」は日本語で「梅の雨」を意味するんだ。梅が熟す時期と重なるからこう呼ばれているんだよ。実はこの言葉は中国語の「梅雨」（méiyǔ）から来ているんだ。
Interesting! What are some typical activities people do during the rainy season?
面白いね！梅雨の間に人々がよくやることって何？
Many people visit hydrangea gardens. The flowers are in full bloom and look beautiful in the rain. You can also visit museums or art galleries, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in a cozy café, or try indoor activities like pottery workshops.
多くの人があじさいの庭園を訪れるよ。花が満開で、雨の中でも美しいんだ。博物館や美術館を訪れたり、居心地の良いカフェでお茶やコーヒーを楽しんだり、陶芸教室のような室内アクティビティを試したりもできるよ。
I’ve seen those hydrangeas. They are really pretty. Does the rain affect daily life a lot?
あのあじさい見たことあるよ。本当に綺麗だね。雨は日常生活に大きく影響するの？
Yes, it does. Transportation can be disrupted due to flooding, and the high humidity can cause mold in homes. Drying clothes also takes longer.
そうだね。洪水で交通が乱れたり、高湿度で家の中にカビが生えやすくなったりするよ。洗濯物も乾きにくくなるんだ。
That sounds challenging. But I guess it’s also cooler compared to the rest of the summer?
それは大変だね。でも、他の夏の時期に比べて涼しいのかな？
Exactly. The temperatures are lower, which is a relief before the intense summer heat. It’s a good time to enjoy some indoor relaxation too.
その通り。気温が低くて、本格的な夏の暑さの前にひと息つけるよ。この時期は室内でリラックスするのにもいい時期なんだ。
How do farmers deal with the rainy season?
農家の人たちは梅雨にどう対処しているの？
The rain is actually beneficial for farmers, especially for rice paddies that need a lot of water. However, they need to manage excess water to prevent flooding and protect their crops from diseases that thrive in humid conditions.
雨は実は農家にとって有益なんだ。特にたくさんの水を必要とする田んぼにとってはね。でも、過剰な水を管理して洪水を防ぎ、湿気の多い環境で繁殖する病気から作物を守る必要があるんだ。
I see. Any tips for staying comfortable during tsuyu?
なるほど。梅雨の間に快適に過ごすためのアドバイスはある？
Using a dehumidifier can help with the humidity. Ventilating your home is also important. And don’t forget to check the weather forecast regularly to avoid getting caught in heavy rain.
除湿機を使うと湿度対策になるよ。家の換気も重要だね。それから、天気予報を定期的にチェックして、大雨に備えることも忘れないでね。
Great advice, Key. I’ll make sure to stay prepared. Thanks for explaining all this to me!
いいアドバイスだね、キー。準備を怠らないようにするよ。いろいろ教えてくれてありがとう！
Anytime, Mack. Enjoy the rainy season and stay dry!
いつでもどういたしまして、マック。梅雨を楽しんで、濡れないようにね！
関連情報 / related information
梅雨
Timing and Duration
The rainy season in Japan, called “tsuyu,” occurs from late spring to early summer. It usually starts in late May in Okinawa and early June in mainland Japan, lasting until mid to late July. This period is characterized by frequent and heavy rains.
日本の梅雨（つゆ）は、春の終わりから夏の始まりにかけて発生します。通常、沖縄では5月下旬に、本州では6月初旬に始まり、7月中旬から下旬まで続きます。この期間は、頻繁な大雨が特徴です。
Weather Characteristics
During tsuyu, the humidity is very high, making it feel warmer than it actually is. The rain can be very intense, sometimes leading to flooding. The high humidity also means that clothes take longer to dry and mold can grow more easily in homes.
梅雨の間、湿度は非常に高く、実際の気温以上に暑く感じます。雨は非常に強く、時には洪水を引き起こすこともあります。また、高湿度のため、洗濯物が乾きにくく、家の中にカビが生えやすくなります。
Impact on Agriculture
The rainy season is crucial for Japanese agriculture. The rain provides necessary water for rice paddies and other crops. However, farmers must manage water levels carefully to prevent flooding and protect their crops from diseases that thrive in humid conditions.
梅雨は日本の農業にとって非常に重要です。雨は田んぼや他の作物に必要な水を供給します。しかし、農家は水位を慎重に管理して洪水を防ぎ、湿気の多い環境で繁殖する病気から作物を守る必要があります。
Effect on Daily Life
Tsuyu affects daily life in many ways. Transportation can be disrupted by heavy rain, causing delays. High humidity can make homes damp and uncomfortable, and mold can become a problem. People often need to use dehumidifiers and ventilate their homes well.
梅雨は日常生活に多くの影響を与えます。大雨によって交通が乱れ、遅延が発生することがあります。高湿度は家を湿らせ、不快にさせることがあり、カビが問題になることもあります。多くの人は除湿機を使ったり、家をよく換気する必要があります。
Enjoying Tsuyu
Despite the challenges, there are enjoyable aspects of tsuyu. Visiting hydrangea gardens is popular, as the flowers bloom beautifully during this season. People also visit museums, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Indoor activities like pottery workshops are also a good way to spend rainy days.
困難がある一方で、梅雨には楽しめる面もあります。あじさいの庭園を訪れることが人気で、花がこの季節に美しく咲きます。人々はまた、博物館や美術館、居心地の良いカフェを訪れます。陶芸教室などの室内活動も雨の日を過ごす良い方法です。
Origin of the Name
“Tsuyu” means “plum rain” because it coincides with the time when plums ripen. The term comes from the Chinese word “梅雨” (méiyǔ), reflecting the same seasonal phenomenon. Understanding tsuyu helps in appreciating its impact on Japanese life and culture.
「つゆ」という名前は、梅が熟す時期と重なるため「梅の雨」を意味します。この言葉は中国語の「梅雨」（méiyǔ）から来ており、同じ季節現象を反映しています。梅雨を理解することで、日本の生活や文化への影響をより深く理解できます。
10の質問 / 10 questions
1: What is tsuyu?
梅雨とは何ですか？
Tsuyu is the Japanese term for the rainy season that typically occurs from late May to mid or late July. During this time, Japan experiences frequent and heavy rain, as well as high humidity.
梅雨は、通常5月下旬から7月中旬または下旬にかけて発生する日本の雨季を指します。この時期、日本では頻繁で激しい雨と高湿度が特徴です。
2: Why is tsuyu called "plum rain"?
なぜ梅雨は「梅の雨」と呼ばれるのですか？
Tsuyu is called "plum rain" because it coincides with the ripening of plums in Japan. The name comes from the Chinese term "梅雨" (méiyǔ), which also refers to the rainy season.
梅雨は、梅の実が熟す時期と重なるため「梅の雨」と呼ばれます。この名前は、中国語の「梅雨」（méiyǔ）から来ており、同様に雨季を指しています。
3: When does tsuyu start and end?
梅雨はいつ始まり、いつ終わりますか？
Tsuyu usually begins in late May in Okinawa and early June in mainland Japan. It typically lasts until mid or late July, depending on the region.
梅雨は通常、沖縄では5月下旬、本州では6月初旬に始まります。地域によって異なりますが、7月中旬から下旬まで続くのが一般的です。
4: How does tsuyu affect daily life in Japan?
梅雨は日本の日常生活にどのような影響を与えますか？
During tsuyu, the high humidity and frequent rain can disrupt transportation, make clothes take longer to dry, and cause mold growth in homes. People often need to adjust their activities accordingly.
梅雨の間は、高湿度と頻繁な雨が交通を乱し、衣服が乾くのに時間がかかったり、家の中にカビが発生したりします。そのため、多くの人は活動を調整する必要があります。
5: How does the rainy season benefit agriculture?
梅雨は農業にどのような利益をもたらしますか？
The rainy season is essential for crops like rice, as it provides the water necessary for growth. However, farmers must carefully manage the water to prevent flooding and protect crops from diseases caused by humidity.
梅雨は、米のような作物の成長に必要な水を供給するため、農業にとって不可欠です。しかし、農家は洪水を防ぎ、湿気による病害から作物を守るため、水の管理に注意を払う必要があります。
6: What activities can people enjoy during tsuyu?
梅雨の間、人々はどのような活動を楽しむことができますか？
Many people visit hydrangea gardens, as the flowers bloom beautifully in the rain. Others enjoy indoor activities such as visiting museums, cafes, or participating in workshops like pottery making.
多くの人々が雨の中で美しく咲くあじさいの庭園を訪れます。また、博物館やカフェを訪れたり、陶芸教室などのワークショップに参加したりといった屋内活動を楽しむ人もいます。
7: How can people cope with the high humidity during tsuyu?
梅雨の間の高湿度に人々はどう対処すればよいですか？
People often use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture in their homes. Ventilating rooms and checking the weather forecast to avoid being caught in heavy rain are also important during tsuyu.
人々はしばしば除湿機を使用して家の湿気を減らします。部屋を換気し、天気予報を確認して大雨に備えることも梅雨の間は重要です。
8: What challenges does tsuyu bring to homes?
梅雨は家庭にどのような課題をもたらしますか？
High humidity can lead to mold growth in homes and damp environments. Keeping rooms well-ventilated and using dehumidifiers can help prevent these issues.
高湿度は家の中にカビを発生させたり、湿気の多い環境を作り出します。部屋の換気を良くし、除湿機を使うことで、これらの問題を防ぐことができます。
9: Why do hydrangeas bloom during the rainy season?
なぜあじさいは梅雨の間に咲くのですか？
Hydrangeas thrive in the moist, rainy environment of tsuyu. Their bright, colorful flowers bloom beautifully during this season, making them a symbol of the rainy season in Japan.
あじさいは、湿気の多い梅雨の環境でよく育ちます。鮮やかでカラフルな花がこの季節に美しく咲き、梅雨の象徴として知られています。
10: How does tsuyu affect transportation in Japan?
梅雨は日本の交通にどのような影響を与えますか？
Heavy rain during tsuyu can cause delays and disruptions in transportation, particularly for trains and buses. Flooding and road closures are also common in some areas.
梅雨の大雨は、特に電車やバスの交通に遅延や混乱を引き起こすことがあります。洪水や道路閉鎖が一部地域でよく見られます。
words & phrases
英会話ダイアローグと関連情報に出てきた単語・フレーズです（例文は各３つ）。
disrupted : 形容詞
意味: 乱れた、中断された。Interrupted or disturbed.
(梅雨の大雨によって交通が乱れることを指す)
例文:
The heavy rain disrupted the train schedule.
「大雨が電車の運行を乱しました。」
Our plans were disrupted by the unexpected storm.
「予期せぬ嵐で私たちの計画が中断されました。」
The meeting was disrupted by technical issues.
「会議は技術的な問題で中断されました。」
mold : 名詞 /moʊld/
意味: カビ。A fungus that grows in damp, warm conditions.
(高湿度により家の中に生えるカビを指す)
例文:
The high humidity caused mold to grow in the bathroom.
「高湿度が原因で浴室にカビが生えました。」
We need to clean the mold from the walls.
「壁のカビを掃除する必要があります。」
Mold can be harmful to your health.
「カビは健康に害を及ぼすことがあります。」
dehumidifier : 名詞 /ˌdiː.hjuːˈmɪd.ɪ.faɪ.ər/
意味: 除湿機。A device that removes moisture from the air.
(梅雨の高湿度を和らげるために使用する装置を指す)
例文:
We use a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity in our home.
「家の湿度を下げるために除湿機を使っています。」
The dehumidifier helps prevent mold growth.
「除湿機はカビの発生を防ぐのに役立ちます。」
A dehumidifier is essential during the rainy season.
「梅雨の間は除湿機が欠かせません。」
damp : 形容詞 /dæmp/
意味: 湿っぽい。Slightly wet, often in a way that is unpleasant.
(高湿度のために家の中が湿っぽい状態を指す)
例文:
The basement is always damp in the rainy season.
「梅雨の間、地下室はいつも湿っぽいです。」
Damp clothes take longer to dry.
「湿っぽい服は乾くのに時間がかかります。」
The air felt damp and heavy.
「空気が湿っぽくて重く感じました。」
ventilate : 動詞
意味: 換気する。To allow fresh air to enter and move through a space.
(高湿度を和らげるために家の中を換気することを指す)
例文:
It’s important to ventilate your home during the rainy season.
「梅雨の間は家を換気することが重要です。」
We ventilate the room to reduce humidity.
「湿度を下げるために部屋を換気します。」
The kitchen needs to be well ventilated.
「キッチンはしっかり換気する必要があります。」