1.
crocodile; alligator
A large semi-aquatic reptile with a long snout, powerful jaws, and a long tail. The Japanese word encompasses both crocodiles and alligators.
動物園で大きな鰐を見た。
I saw a big crocodile at the zoo.
鰐は水辺で獲物を待ち伏せしている。
The crocodile is lying in wait for prey at the water's edge.
鰐の皮で作った財布は高級品として知られている。
Wallets made from crocodile leather are known as luxury items.
川で泳いでいたら鰐が近づいてきたので、急いで逃げた。
A crocodile approached while I was swimming in the river, so I fled in a hurry.
鰐は何時間も水中でじっと動かずに獲物を待つことができる。
Crocodiles can stay motionless in the water for hours waiting for prey.
鰐 refers to both crocodiles and alligators. To distinguish them:
- 鰐 or クロコダイル (crocodile)
- アリゲーター (alligator specifically)
Common expressions:
- 鰐皮 / 鰐の皮 (crocodile leather)
- 鰐の涙 (crocodile tears - insincere tears)
Counter: 匹 or 頭 (for large individuals)
Cultural note:
In Japanese mythology, 鰐 sometimes appears as a sea creature (possibly referring to sharks in ancient texts). In the Kojiki, the deity Toyotama-hime transformed into a 鰐 during childbirth.