Translation guide
The English word 'filled' can describe a container that is full, a space that is occupied, or a person who is emotionally satisfied. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for these different meanings.
The glass is filled with water.
Describing a container, room, or area that is completely full of something.
A versatile word meaning 'full' or 'filled'. Can be used for containers, rooms, schedules, etc.
The glass is filled with water.
The venue was filled with people.
Literally 'full cup', used for containers or spaces that are completely full, often to capacity.
The parking lot is filled.
A more literary or formal way to say 'filled with ~'. Often used for abstract things like emotions or atmosphere.
The room was filled with the scent of flowers.
Feeling content, satisfied, or emotionally full, often after eating or experiencing something fulfilling.
Means 'satisfied' or 'content'. Often used for emotional fulfillment or satisfaction with a result.
He is filled with satisfaction at the result.
Literally 'the heart is filled', used for deep emotional fulfillment or a sense of being moved.
A noun meaning 'sense of fulfillment' or 'feeling of being filled' with purpose or satisfaction.
Describing something that contains a particular substance, quality, or emotion, often used in more abstract or descriptive contexts.
Means 'to be filled with' or 'to be full of', often used for abstract qualities like hope, joy, or life.
Her eyes were filled with hope.
The place is filled with energy.
Means 'overflowing with', implying an abundance that cannot be contained. Used for both concrete and abstract things.
The street was filled with tourists.
いっぱい is the most common and casual way to say 'full'. 満杯 is more specific to capacity limits (like a full parking lot). 満たされている is more literary and often used for abstract or emotional filling.
While 'filled with joy' can be translated as 喜びでいっぱい or 喜びに満ちている, the literal translation 'fill' as a verb (満たす) is less common in casual speech. Use adjectives like うれしい (happy) or phrases like 感動した (was moved) for more natural expressions.
Listening to the beautiful music filled my heart.
I feel filled with a sense of fulfillment at work.
His heart was filled with joy.