Translation guide
The English word 'blaze' can refer to a large, strong fire, a bright light or display, or a sudden outburst of emotion. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
To describe a big, intense fire, such as a building fire or forest fire.
The most common word for a fire that causes damage, like a house fire or building fire. It implies an uncontrolled fire.
There was a blaze at the neighbor's house last night.
Refers to flames themselves. Can be used for a blaze when emphasizing the visual aspect of the flames.
建物が激しい炎に包まれた。
The building was engulfed in a fierce blaze.
Literally 'big fire'. Used for large-scale fires, often in news reports.
市街地で大火が発生した。
A large blaze broke out in the city center.
Literally 'hand of fire'. Refers to the spreading flames of a fire, often used in the phrase 火の手が上がる (flames rise up).
火の手が強風にあおられて広がった。
The blaze spread, fanned by strong winds.
To describe something shining brightly, like lights, colors, or a brilliant display.
Means brilliance, radiance, or glitter. Used for a blaze of light or color.
ダイヤモンドがまばゆい輝きを放っている。
The diamond is emitting a dazzling blaze of light.
General word for light. Can be used with modifiers to express a blaze of light.
Literally 'a surface of light', used to describe a scene filled with light, like a blaze of lights.
街は一面の光だった。
The city was a blaze of lights.
To express a sudden, intense display of emotion, especially anger.
Means rage or fury. Often used in the phrase 激怒する (to blaze with anger).
彼はその知らせを聞いて激怒した。
He blazed with anger when he heard the news.
Literally 'to explode one's anger'. Conveys a sudden outburst of rage.
彼女はついに怒りを爆発させた。
She finally blazed with anger.
Literally 'emotions blaze up'. Used for a sudden surge of any strong emotion.
彼の心に怒りの感情が燃え上がった。
A blaze of anger rose in his heart.
To refer to a mark made on a tree to indicate a path, or a trail marker.
General word for a mark or sign used as a guide. Can be used for a blaze on a tree.
登山道には木に目印がつけてある。
The trail has blazes on the trees.
Literally 'a mark carved into a tree'. More specific to a blaze on a tree.
古い木に刻まれた印が道を示していた。
Blazes carved into the old trees showed the way.
In English, 'blaze' can mean to move very fast (e.g., 'blaze a trail'). In Japanese, use 速く進む (はやくすすむ) or 先駆ける (さきがける) instead of fire-related words.
部屋が明るい光で満たされた。
The room was filled with a blaze of light.