Translation guide
Describes eyes that are partially closed, often conveying tiredness, boredom, suspicion, or a relaxed state. Japanese has several expressions depending on the nuance.
He looked sleepy, his eyes were half-closed.
Literally 'half-eye'. Often used in the phrase 半目を開ける (to open one's eyes halfway) or to describe a sleepy expression. Casual.
I'm getting so sleepy my eyes are half-open.
Describes droopy, heavy-lidded eyes, often from sleepiness or intoxication. Evokes a soft, unfocused look.
The baby has droopy, half-open eyes.
Eyes that are half-closed to show lack of interest, disdain, or cool indifference.
To look with half-closed eyes, often implying boredom or contempt. The phrase 半目 itself can carry this nuance.
He looked at me with half-open eyes and yawned.
A slang term for a half-lidded, unimpressed stare. Often used in anime/manga contexts to show annoyance or skepticism.
Literally 'disillusioned eyes'. Implies a cold, half-lidded look of disappointment or boredom.
Eyes that are softly half-open, expressing pleasure, relaxation, or allure.
Eyes half-closed in a dreamy, enchanted state. Often used for someone enjoying music, food, or a beautiful view.
She was watching the sunset with half-closed, dreamy eyes.
Literally 'narrowed eyes'. Can indicate a gentle smile, suspicion, or concentration. Context determines the nuance.
A sensual, alluring gaze with half-closed eyes. Often used in romantic contexts.
Half-open eyes due to a medical issue like ptosis or nerve damage.
The direct translation '半分開いた目' is grammatically correct but sounds unnatural in most contexts. Use the expressions above for specific nuances.
半目 is a general term for half-open eyes, while ジト目 specifically refers to a cold, unimpressed stare often seen in manga/anime. ジト目 is slang and not used in formal situations.
She glared at him with half-open, unimpressed eyes.
Everyone gave his joke a half-open, unamused look.
The cat has its eyes half-closed in contentment.
She gazed at him with half-open, seductive eyes.