Translation guide
Expresses that something is located or happening far away, but still visible or audible. Japanese uses several adverbial phrases and nouns, with the most common being 遠くに (tōku ni).
in the distance (location)
in the distance (movement)
To say that something is situated or occurring at a far-off place, within sight or hearing.
The most common and neutral way to say 'in the distance'. Used for both visible and audible things.
I can see mountains in the distance.
I heard thunder in the distance.
Slightly more specific, emphasizing the direction or area. 'Over in the distance'.
Literary or poetic word for 'far away', 'beyond'. Used in written language or formal speech.
The sun sets in the distance.
To describe something moving away and becoming a distant figure or sound.
Using 'distance' as a noun to refer to a faraway place.
遠くに is used for existence or static location (e.g., 'There is a mountain in the distance'). 遠くで is used for actions or events happening at a distant place (e.g., 'Fireworks are going off in the distance').
There is a lighthouse in the distance.
A siren is sounding in the distance.
距離 means 'distance' as a measurable length (e.g., 'the distance between Tokyo and Osaka'). It is not used to mean 'in the distance' as a location. Use 遠く instead.
There was a small house in the distance.
The ship disappeared into the distance.
遠くから来た。
I came from a distance.
Fireworks are going off in the distance.