1.
to rage; to wreak havoc; to be rampant
Used to describe the fierce, uncontrollable force of natural disasters, diseases, storms, or other destructive phenomena. Expresses the idea that something is causing widespread damage or disruption.
インフルエンザが猛威を振るっている。
The flu is raging.
台風が九州地方で猛威を振るった。
The typhoon wreaked havoc in the Kyushu region.
世界中で猛威を振るった感染症は、多くの人の生活を変えた。
The infectious disease that raged around the world changed many people's lives.
USAGE:
A set expression almost exclusively used with natural disasters, diseases, storms, and similar destructive forces. Not used for human anger or emotions.
COMMON SUBJECTS:
- 台風 (typhoon)
- インフルエンザ / 感染症 (flu / infectious disease)
- 猛暑 (extreme heat)
- 山火事 (wildfire)
ASPECT:
猛威を振るっている indicates the destruction is currently ongoing.