Translation guide
The light produced by a fire, such as a campfire, fireplace, or candle. In Japanese, this is typically expressed with compound nouns combining 'fire' and 'light', or by describing the scene.
The general light emitted by flames, often in a cozy or natural setting.
Literally 'light of fire'. A straightforward and common way to refer to firelight.
火の光で本を読んだ。
I read a book by firelight.
Literally 'light of flames'. Emphasizes the flames themselves rather than the fire as a whole.
炎の光が壁に揺れていた。
The firelight flickered on the wall.
Specifically the light from a bonfire or campfire. '明かり' implies a softer, more ambient light.
焚き火の明かりで顔が赤く見えた。
Our faces looked red in the firelight.
Specifically the light from a fireplace. More descriptive and less common as a single term.
暖炉の火の光が部屋を暖かく照らした。
The firelight from the fireplace warmly lit the room.