1.
tidal current, ocean current
The flow of seawater caused by tides. A geographic and nautical term.
潮流が速いので泳がないでください。
The tidal current is strong, so please don't swim.
この海峡は潮流が複雑で、航行には注意が必要だ。
The tidal currents in this strait are complex, and caution is needed for navigation.
漁師たちは潮流を読んで魚の集まる場所を見極める。
Fishermen read the tidal currents to identify where fish gather.
2.
trend, tide (of the times), current (of thought)
A large-scale movement or direction of events, society, or thought. Used figuratively to describe broad trends.
時代の潮流に逆らうことはできない。
You cannot go against the tide of the times.
グローバル化は世界的な潮流だ。
Globalization is a worldwide trend.
環境保護を重視する潮流が国際社会に広がっている。
A trend emphasizing environmental protection is spreading across the international community.
USAGE:
The figurative sense (trend/tide) is common in news, essays, and formal discussion. It implies a large-scale, powerful movement that is difficult to resist, similar to the English metaphor of "the tide of history."
DISTINCTION:
- 潮流: emphasizes the directional flow and power of a trend (like a current)
- 傾向: a more neutral term for tendency or trend
- 流行: trend in the sense of fashion or fad, more temporary
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 時代の潮流: tide of the times
- 潮流に乗る: to ride the current/trend
- 潮流に逆らう: to go against the tide
- 新しい潮流: a new trend