Translation guide
Expresses that something is out of sight, concealed, or not apparent. Japanese uses different verbs and constructions depending on whether the subject is a physical object, a person, or an abstract quality, and whether the hiding is intentional or natural.
Describe something that is not visible because it is behind, under, or inside something else, or simply not in view.
The most common way to say something is hidden (intentionally or naturally). It implies the thing is behind or inside something and not visible.
The cat is hidden behind the sofa.
The key is hidden behind the bookshelf.
Simply means 'cannot be seen'. More neutral than 隠れている; it doesn't imply intentional hiding, just lack of visibility.
The mountain is hidden from here.
Used when something is lurking or lying hidden, often with a sense of waiting or being concealed for a purpose. Common for animals, people, or threats.
The culprit is hidden in the darkness.
Express that facts, emotions, or details are not revealed or are kept secret.
Passive form of 隠す (to hide). Used when someone intentionally hides information or truth.
The truth is hidden.
Important information was hidden.
Literally 'is being kept secret'. Emphasizes the intentional act of keeping something confidential.
The plan is being kept hidden.
Used for information that is deliberately withheld or not disclosed, often in formal or official contexts.
The details are hidden.
Describe someone who is concealed or has taken cover.
Express that something has a deeper, not immediately obvious significance or characteristic.
Attributive form meaning 'hidden' as in 'hidden talent' or 'hidden meaning'. Used before nouns.
He has a hidden talent.
This word has a hidden meaning.
Often used for deeply hidden emotions, secrets, or potential. More literary than 隠れた.
She has hidden feelings in her heart.
隠れている implies the thing is behind or inside something and not visible, often intentionally or by its nature. 見えない simply means it cannot be seen, which could be due to distance, darkness, or obstruction without any sense of concealment.
The moon is hidden behind clouds.
I can't see the moon.
For hidden costs or fees, use 隠れた費用 (かくれたひよう) or more naturally 見えない費用 (みえないひよう) or 潜在的な費用 (せんざいてきなひよう). 隠された費用 can sound like someone is deliberately deceiving you.