漂流

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 漂流 is read as ひょうりゅう and is a noun for drifting without a set direction under the force of wind or water; it also combines with する as a verb.
• Basic usage: Describing a damaged boat drifting offshore appears in 小舟が漂流する, while reaching an island after drifting at sea appears in 海を漂流する.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Distinction from 航海
  • 漂流 is uncontrolled drifting under wind or currents, whereas 航海 is planned navigation toward a destination.