Translation guide
Describes something that shines with many small, bright points of light, often in a sparkling or shimmering way. Can be used literally for objects and metaphorically for impressive or glamorous things.
Describing something that reflects many small points of light, like jewels, stars, or water.
An onomatopoeic word that vividly describes something sparkling or glittering. Very common and natural for everyday use.
The stars are glittering.
Her ring was glittering.
Also onomatopoeic, but often implies a clean, polished shine rather than many small points. Can be used for glittering surfaces.
The polished floor is glittering.
A verb meaning to glitter or sparkle. Slightly more literary or poetic than キラキラ.
The lake surface is glittering in the morning sun.
Describing something that is impressively luxurious, flashy, or dazzling, often in a social or entertainment context.
Means gorgeous, showy, or glamorous. Often used for events, fashion, or people.
She wore a glittering dress.
Means dazzlingly beautiful or glittering with decoration. Often implies excessive ornamentation.
Onomatopoeia for a harsh, glaring glitter, often with a negative nuance of being too flashy or vulgar.
Describing eyes that are wet and reflecting light, often from tears or emotion.
キラキラ is the most common for a pleasant, sparkling glitter. ピカピカ implies a polished, clean shine (like a new car). ギラギラ is a harsh, glaring glitter, often negative.
Jewels glitter prettily.
The floor is polished to a glittering shine.
Glaring, glittering neon signs.
It was a glittering party.
A palace with glittering decorations.
ギラギラしたアクセサリーをつけている。
Wearing glittering accessories (in a flashy way).
子供たちの目がキラキラ輝いていた。
The children's eyes were glittering.