Chris Hogg wrote:
On Mon, 03 Jan 2005 13:21:24 +0100, wrote:
When did everybody start calling a tidal wave a tsunami and why?
Why not use the Japanese word for earthquake too?
AIUI, the term 'tidal wave' is strictly incorrect, as the wave has
nothing to do with tides, unlike some other waves such as the Severn
Bore. Tsunami is the 'correct' term (even though we all know what a
tidal wave is). It apparently means 'harbour wave', which sounds just
as inappropriate.
That is correct. "Tidal wave" in English gives entirely the wrong
impression. Just before a big tsunami strikes the sea drains away
rapidly from the shoreline for a short while. Anyone living in a tsunami
prone region should know that this means run for high ground.
Tsunami is basically correct. They are an artefact of the deep water
shockwave running into ever more shallow coastal waters, harbour and
beach. Well out to sea in deep water the effect is much less.
Japanese for earthquake is "jishin". By no means unpronouncable but the
English language version is not misleading and so remains in use.
Regards,
Martin Brown