Translation guide
The word 'brow' in English can refer to the eyebrow, the forehead, or the top edge of a hill or cliff. This guide helps learners express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
Referring to the line of hair above the eye.
Referring to the part of the face above the eyes.
The standard word for 'forehead'. Used in all contexts.
Referring to the projecting edge or summit of a steep place.
While 額 (ひたい) is correct, using おでこ is more natural in casual conversation when referring to someone's forehead, especially with friends or family.
眉をひそめる。
To frown (knit one's brows).
Literally 'eyebrow hair', often used interchangeably with 眉. Slightly more colloquial.
眉毛を整える。
To groom one's eyebrows.
He had sweat on his brow.
額にしわを寄せる。
To wrinkle one's brow.
A more casual and affectionate term for 'forehead', often used with children or in informal settings.
おでこが広いね。
You have a broad forehead, don't you?
Means 'top' or 'summit', often used for hills or mountains. Can be used poetically for 'brow of a hill'.
丘の頂に立つ。
To stand on the brow of the hill.
Means 'edge' or 'brink'. Can be used for the brow of a cliff.
崖の端に立つ。
To stand on the brow of the cliff.
Literally 'top of the hill', a straightforward way to express 'brow of a hill'.
丘の上から景色を見る。
To view the scenery from the brow of the hill.