Translation guide
The English word 'blinking' can refer to the rapid opening and closing of the eyes, or to the intermittent shining of a light. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both meanings.
To express the action of quickly closing and opening the eyes, either voluntarily or involuntarily.
The most common noun for a blink or blinking. Can be used with する to mean 'to blink'.
She blinked in surprise.
Verb meaning 'to blink' or 'to twinkle'. Often used for lights, but can refer to eyes. Slightly literary.
Onomatopoeic phrase for blinking repeatedly, often when surprised or confused. Casual.
Verb form of 瞬き. Common in daily speech.
He blinked many times.
To describe a light that turns on and off repeatedly, or flashes intermittently.
The number of blinks increased.
星が瞬く。
The stars twinkle.
He blinked his eyes.
The child was listening to the story, blinking repeatedly.
Noun meaning 'flashing on and off', used for lights, indicators, etc. Often used with する.
The traffic light is blinking.
The computer's light blinks.
Onomatopoeia for flickering or blinking light, often with a slightly annoying nuance. Casual.
The fluorescent light is flickering.
Can also mean 'to blink' for lights, but more poetic. Often used for stars or distant lights.
The distant lights are twinkling.