Meaning and Usage
"天候" (てんこう) specifically refers to the weather conditions, often used in formal or written contexts such as news reports, weather forecasts, or official announcements. It covers general atmospheric conditions including rain, sunshine, wind, and temperature.
Common Contexts
You will often see "天候" used when discussing plans that depend on the weather, such as flights, events, or outdoor activities. It implies a broader and sometimes more serious tone than the casual word "天気" (てんき).
Collocations and Patterns
- 天候が悪い: bad weather, often used to explain delays or cancellations.
- 天候によって: depending on the weather, used to express conditional situations.
- 天候の変化: changes in the weather, useful when advising caution or preparation.
Nuances
Using "天候" instead of "天気" can sound more formal or technical. For everyday conversation, "天気" is more common. Learners sometimes confuse these two; remember "天候" is better for official or serious contexts.
Tips
When talking about the weather casually with friends, use "天気". Use "天候" when reporting or discussing weather in a professional or formal setting.