気象

きしょう

weather, climate

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Understanding 気象

The word 気象 (きしょう) specifically refers to weather or atmospheric conditions, often used in formal or scientific contexts. It is commonly seen in compound words like 気象庁 (Meteorological Agency) or 気象学 (meteorology).

Usage and Context

気象 is typically used when discussing weather phenomena in a more technical or official sense, such as weather forecasts, climate studies, or reports about atmospheric conditions. It is less common in casual conversation where 天気 (てんき) is preferred.

Common Collocations

  • 気象庁 (きしょうちょう): Meteorological Agency, official weather organization
  • 気象条件 (きしょうじょうけん): weather conditions, often used in travel or transportation contexts
  • 気象学 (きしょうがく): meteorology, the scientific study of weather

Tips for Learners

Be careful not to confuse 気象 with 天気. 天気 is more general and used in everyday conversation, while 気象 is more formal and scientific. When talking about the weather casually, use 天気 instead. Use 気象 when referring to official reports, scientific contexts, or formal announcements.

Example Sentences

きしょうちょうはあしたのてんきよほうをはっぴょうした。

The Meteorological Agency announced the weather forecast for tomorrow.

きしょうじょうけんがわるいため、ひこうきのしゅっぱつがおくれています。

Due to bad weather conditions, the airplane's departure is delayed.

きしょうがくはたいきのげんしょうをけんきゅうするがくもんです。

Meteorology is the science that studies atmospheric phenomena.