Translation guide
The English word 'blot' can refer to a stain or spot, an act of drying or absorbing liquid, or a blemish on reputation. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
Referring to a mark or stain, especially from ink or liquid.
General word for a stain or blot, often from liquid. Can be used for ink, food, etc.
インクの染みがついた。
There's an ink blot on it.
Dirt, stain, or blot in a broader sense. Often implies something that makes an object dirty.
シャツに汚れがついている。
There's a blot on my shirt.
Spot, speck, or blot. More technical or descriptive, often used for patterns or small marks.
紙に黒い斑点がある。
There are black blots on the paper.
Describing the action of soaking up liquid, e.g., with a tissue or cloth.
To absorb or blot up liquid. Commonly used for cleaning spills.
こぼした水をタオルで吸い取った。
I blotted up the spilled water with a towel.
To blot by pressing and absorbing. Emphasizes the pressing action, like blotting with a tissue.
インクをティッシュで押さえて吸い取った。
I blotted the ink with a tissue.
To wipe off or blot away. Often used for cleaning surfaces.
Referring to a moral stain or something that damages one's good name.
Stain, blot, or disgrace on one's reputation. Often used in formal or serious contexts.
その事件は彼の経歴の汚点となった。
The incident became a blot on his career.
Literally 'wound', but metaphorically a blot or blemish on reputation.
そのスキャンダルは彼の名声に傷をつけた。
The scandal left a blot on his reputation.
Dishonor, stigma, or blot on one's name. Stronger and more literary.
テーブルの水滴を拭き取った。
I blotted the water drops from the table.
He worked hard to clear the blot on his name.