Translation guide
Describes the feeling of being overwhelmed by something vast, powerful, or sublime. Japanese expresses this through verbs, adjectives, and phrases that convey deep admiration, fear, or speechlessness.
Feeling deeply moved or impressed by something magnificent, such as nature, art, or a person's ability.
Literally 'to receive a deep impression.' Used when something leaves a lasting emotional or intellectual impact.
彼のスピーチに感銘を受けた。
I was deeply impressed by his speech.
To be emotionally moved or touched. Common for art, performances, or acts of kindness.
その映画に感動して涙が出た。
I was so moved by the movie that I cried.
To be overwhelmed or overpowered, often by scale, intensity, or excellence. Can be positive or negative.
富士山の壮大さに圧倒された。
I was overwhelmed by the grandeur of Mt. Fuji.
To feel a sense of awe and reverence, often for something sacred or sublime. Formal and literary.
大自然の力に畏敬の念を抱いた。
I felt a sense of awe at the power of nature.
Being so surprised or frightened that you cannot speak or react.
To be at a loss for words, often due to shock, surprise, or strong emotion.
あまりの光景に言葉を失った。
I was speechless at the sight.
To be dumbfounded or stunned, often with a blank expression. Implies a temporary inability to process what happened.
突然の知らせに呆然とした。
I was stunned by the sudden news.
To gasp or catch one's breath, often from sudden beauty or shock.
A positive, childlike amazement at something extraordinary.
To admire or marvel at something. Often used for skill, beauty, or achievement.
彼女の才能に感嘆した。
I marveled at her talent.
To be filled with wonder and admiration, slightly stronger than 感嘆. Often written.
その技術には驚嘆するばかりだ。
I can only marvel at that technique.
感動 is a general emotional response (moved, touched), while 感銘 implies a deeper, lasting impression that often influences one's thinking or values. 感銘 is more formal.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all nuances of 'awe.' Choose based on whether the feeling is positive (admiration), negative (fear), or mixed. Using 畏敬 (いけい) is very formal and may sound overly dramatic in casual speech.
I gasped at its beauty.