1.
trouble; discord; disturbance
Figuratively refers to trouble, conflict, or disruption in relationships or situations. Most commonly used in the expression 波風を立てる (to stir up trouble).
波風を立てたくない。
I don't want to stir up trouble.
あまり波風を立てずに穏やかに暮らしたい。
I want to live peacefully without stirring up trouble.
余計なことを言って波風を立てるのはやめてほしい。
I wish you'd stop saying unnecessary things and causing trouble.
2.
waves and wind; rough seas
The literal meaning of waves and wind on the sea.
海の波風が強い。
The waves and wind on the sea are strong.
波風が収まるのを待って出港した。
We waited for the waves and wind to die down before setting sail.
波風のない穏やかな海を眺めていると心が落ち着く。
Looking at a calm sea without waves or wind puts my mind at ease.
USAGE:
The figurative sense (trouble, discord) is far more common than the literal sense. The key expression is 波風を立てる (to stir up trouble / to rock the boat). The negative form 波風を立てない reflects the Japanese cultural value of maintaining harmony.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 波風を立てる (to stir up trouble)
- 波風が立つ (trouble arises)
- 波風を立てない (to not rock the boat)