バッタ
ばった
noun
grasshopper, locust
1.
grasshopper, locust
A plant-eating insect with long hind legs for jumping, found in grassy areas. Known for their chirping sounds and ability to leap great distances relative to their size.
草むらでバッタが跳ねている。
Grasshoppers are hopping in the grass.
子供たちがバッタを捕まえて遊んでいる。
The children are playing by catching grasshoppers.
トノサマバッタは日本で最大のバッタだ。
The migratory locust is the largest grasshopper in Japan.
TYPES OF バッタ:
- トノサマバッタ (migratory locust) - largest species in Japan
- ショウリョウバッタ (rice grasshopper) - long, slender body
- オンブバッタ (pygmy grasshopper) - male rides on female's back
- イナゴ (rice locust) - eaten as food in some regions
VS RELATED INSECTS:
- バッタ - general term for grasshoppers/locusts
- イナゴ - specifically rice locusts, also a food
- キリギリス (katydid) - different family, longer antennae
- コオロギ (cricket) - distinct chirping sound
CULTURAL NOTE: Catching バッタ is a popular summer activity for Japanese children, especially トノサマバッタ. Some regions, particularly 長野県, traditionally eat イナゴ (locusts) as 佃煮 (simmered in soy sauce).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- バッタを捕まえる (to catch a grasshopper)
- バッタが跳ねる (a grasshopper hops)
Related Words
Related:
カマキリ (insect)