Translation guide
Expresses the state of being mentally sharp, alert, and free from confusion or intoxication. Japanese uses different words depending on whether you mean sober, mentally sharp, or having a clear mind.
To be free from the effects of alcohol or drugs; to have a clear mind after drinking.
The most common word for 'sober', meaning not under the influence of alcohol. Can be used as a noun or na-adjective.
Kanji form of しらふ, meaning sober. Less common in casual writing but seen in formal contexts.
素面では言えない本音。
True feelings you can't say when sober.
Literally 'the alcohol leaves', meaning to sober up after drinking. Describes the process of becoming sober.
酒が抜けるまで待つ。
Wait until the alcohol wears off.
Having a clear, focused mind; able to think well without confusion or drowsiness.
Means to be clear, sharp, or alert. Often used for the mind or senses. '頭が冴える' means to be clear-headed or mentally sharp.
朝は頭が冴えている。
My mind is clear in the morning.
コーヒーを飲むと頭が冴える。
Drinking coffee makes me clear-headed.
A formal word meaning lucid, clear. Often used in '明晰な頭脳' (clear mind) or '意識が明晰だ' (consciousness is clear).
Literally 'head becomes clear', a common phrase meaning to feel clear-headed or alert.
散歩したら頭がはっきりした。
After a walk, my head felt clear.
Being free from worries, distractions, or emotional turmoil; able to think rationally.
Literally 'heart becomes clear', meaning to have a serene, unclouded mind. Often used in poetic or reflective contexts.
自然の中で心が澄んだ。
My mind became clear in nature.
Uses the English loanword 'clear' to mean becoming clear-headed, often after rest or meditation.
少し寝たら頭がクリアになった。
After a little sleep, my head became clear.
彼は明晰な頭脳の持ち主だ。
He has a clear mind.