Translation guide
The English phrase "be reflected" can refer to light or images bouncing off surfaces, or to abstract qualities being shown or represented. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both physical and figurative reflection.
To describe light, images, or sound bouncing off a surface.
The most common and general verb for physical reflection of light, sound, or heat.
鏡に顔が反射している。
My face is reflected in the mirror.
The moon was reflected on the water's surface.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to be reflected' or 'to be visible (as a reflection)'. Often used for images in mirrors, windows, or water.
窓に山が映っている。
The mountains are reflected in the window.
湖に逆さ富士が映っていた。
The upside-down Mt. Fuji was reflected in the lake.
Transitive verb meaning 'to reflect' or 'to project' an image. Used when someone or something causes the reflection.
鏡が顔を映している。
The mirror is reflecting my face.
Specifically for light or heat being reflected back, often from a surface like snow or a wall.
雪が日光を照り返してまぶしい。
The snow reflects the sunlight and it's dazzling.
To say that something shows, represents, or is a sign of something else.
The most common verb for abstract reflection: opinions, trends, values being reflected in something.
彼の意見が政策に反映された。
His opinion was reflected in the policy.
この小説には当時の社会が反映されている。
This novel reflects the society of that time.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to appear' or 'to be expressed'. Used when a feeling or quality shows itself naturally.
Similar to 表れる, but more about physical appearance or emergence. Can be used for abstract things becoming visible.
Transitive verb meaning 'to show' or 'to indicate'. Often used when data or evidence reflects a trend.
To describe the state of being visible as a reflection.
Common phrase meaning 'is reflected in the mirror'. Uses the intransitive 映る in its continuous state form.
自分の姿が鏡に映っている。
My figure is reflected in the mirror.
反射する is for physical reflection of light, sound, heat. 映る is for images being reflected or visible on a surface. 反映する is for abstract reflection of ideas, opinions, or qualities.
Saying 意見が反射する is incorrect. Use 反映する for abstract reflection.
彼の性格は作品に表れている。
His personality is reflected in his work.
その問題は数字に現れている。
The problem is reflected in the numbers.
This data reflects economic growth.