Translation and Meaning of: 花火 - hanabi

On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word 花火 (hanabi) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.

Romaji: hanabi

Kana: はなび

Type: Noun

L: jlpt-n2

花火

Translation / Meaning: fireworks

Meaning in English: fireworks

Definition: Festivals and events that use fireworks launched into the night sky.

Table of Content
- Etymology
- Writing
- Synonyms
- Example Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (花火) hanabi

The Japanese word 「花火」 (hanabi) combines two elements: 「花」 (hana), which means "flower", and 「火」 (hi), which means "fire". Literally, the expression translates as "flowers of fire", a poetic image that captures the ephemeral beauty of fireworks. The kanji characters are composed of the radicals for "plant" and "fire", respectively, reflecting the fusion of these two concepts in a single visual spectacle.

Fireworks have a long history in Japan, with the term 「花火」 being part of the culture for many centuries. Originally, the knowledge and technology of fireworks were introduced to Japan from China around the 16th and 17th centuries. Since then, fireworks have become an essential part of the Japanese cultural landscape, especially during summer when outdoor festivals known as 「花火大会」 (hanabi taikai) light up the night sky.

Within Japanese culture, 「花火」 are not just a form of entertainment, but also carry profound symbolic meanings. They represent fleeting and ephemeral beauty, a concept known as 「無常」 (mujo), which is central to Buddhist thought and deeply intertwined with Japanese aesthetics. Watching a 「花火」 display is an experience that invites reflection on the transience of life and the appreciation of the present moment.

It is interesting to note that, in different regions of Japan, the styles and techniques for creating 「花火」 can vary, resulting in unique and innovative displays every time they are launched into the sky. Today, the term 「花火」 can also be found in more modern contexts, from song titles to works of art, always evoking the beauty and wonder associated with this magnificent visual event.

How to Write in Japanese - (花火) hanabi

See below a step-by-step guide on how to write the word by hand in Japanese (花火) hanabi:

Synonyms and similar words

There are different ways of expressing the idea of "Festivals and events that use fireworks launched into the night sky." in the Japanese language.

A way of saying "fireworks" é "(花火) hanabi".

Below is a list of Japanese words that have the same meaning or are a variation of the word. "(花火) hanabi":

煙火 (Enka) - Fireworks in general, especially in traditional contexts.
打ち上げ花火 (Uchiage Hanabi) - Fireworks launched into the sky.
花火大会 (Hanabi Taikai) - Fireworks festival.
大煙火 (Dai Enka) - Large fireworks, usually at major events.
大花火 (Dai Hanabi) - Great fireworks, focusing on dimension and spectacle.
大爆竹 (Dai Bakuchiku) - Big firecrackers, explosives used in celebrations.
大爆発 (Dai Bakuhatsu) - Great explosion, in the context of major events or accidents.
大打ち上げ花火 (Dai Uchiage Hanabi) - Great fireworks display.