Translation guide
How to express hitting the exact center of a target, both literally and figuratively, in Japanese.
Describing the action of hitting the exact center of a physical target, like in archery or darts.
A straightforward way to say 'hit the center of the target'. It's clear and natural.
彼は矢を的の中心に当てた。
He hit the bull's-eye with his arrow.
More casual; 'hit the very middle'. Often used in everyday contexts like games.
Expressing that a guess, answer, or action was perfectly accurate or successful.
Literally 'point out the bull's-eye'. Used when someone accurately guesses or points out a hidden truth or sensitive point.
彼の指摘は図星だった。
His remark hit the bull's-eye.
図星 (zuboshi) is used when someone accurately guesses a hidden truth or sensitive point, often with a nuance of being caught out. 核心 (kakushin) refers to the core or essence of a matter, so 核心を突く means to get to the heart of an issue. Use 図星 for personal revelations, 核心 for logical or argumentative points.
彼に図星を指されて、何も言えなかった。
He hit the bull's-eye and I couldn't say anything.
彼女の意見はいつも核心を突いている。
Her opinions always hit the bull's-eye.
I hit the bull's-eye in darts!
Means 'to make a hit' or 'to score a direct hit'. More formal or technical, used in contexts like shooting or military.
狙った的に命中させた。
I hit the intended target dead center.
Means 'to hit the core/essence'. Used when a statement or question gets to the heart of the matter.
その質問は核心を突いている。
That question hits the bull's-eye.
Means 'to be right on target' or 'to come true' (for predictions). Common for guesses or forecasts.
彼の予想が的中した。
His prediction hit the bull's-eye.
A colloquial onomatopoeic word meaning 'exactly right' or 'spot on'. Used for precise matches or perfect timing.
答えがどんぴしゃりだった。
The answer was right on the bull's-eye.