Translation guide
The English word 'dazzling' describes something so bright or impressive that it overwhelms the senses. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is まぶしい (mabushii), but depending on context, other words for brilliance, beauty, or skill can be used.
Describing light that is so bright it hurts the eyes or makes it hard to see.
The standard adjective for dazzling light. Used for sunlight, headlights, reflections, etc.
The sun is dazzling.
The car's headlights were so dazzling I couldn't see ahead.
A more literary or formal synonym for まぶしい. Often used in written descriptions.
A dazzling light streamed into the room.
An onomatopoeic adverb describing sparkling or glittering light, like stars or jewelry. Often used with する or 光る.
The stars are dazzlingly bright.
Describing something so beautiful, skillful, or impressive that it captivates or amazes.
Literally 'to open one's eyes wide', meaning something is so impressive it makes you stare. Often used as 目を見張るような (dazzling, breathtaking).
Her performance was dazzling.
Means gorgeous, showy, or dazzling in a glamorous sense. Used for fashion, events, or personalities.
Means vivid, brilliant, or dazzling in terms of color or skill. Often used for colors, displays, or techniques.
Can also be used metaphorically for dazzling beauty or brilliance, but is more literary.
Used figuratively for something so brilliant or excellent it overshadows others.
While まぶしい is the most direct translation, it primarily refers to physical brightness. Using it for a 'dazzling smile' or 'dazzling performance' can sound odd. Instead, use words like 華やか or 目を見張る for non-light contexts.
華やかなドレスに身を包んでいた。
She was wearing a dazzling dress.
鮮やかな手さばきで料理を作った。
He prepared the dish with dazzling skill.
彼女の眩いばかりの美しさに言葉を失った。
I was speechless at her dazzling beauty.
His achievements shine dazzlingly in history.