Translation guide
The English verb 'kindle' has two main uses: starting a fire and arousing emotions. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both.
To light or start a fire, often with kindling or small flames.
General phrase for lighting a fire, such as a campfire or stove. Literally 'attach fire'.
He kindled a bonfire with a match.
Formal or technical term for ignition, used for engines, gas stoves, or rockets.
Please kindle the engine.
To burn something intentionally. Can be used for kindling a fire by burning materials.
To light kindling or fuel to start a fire. Also used figuratively for stirring up emotions.
To stir up or inspire feelings like passion, interest, or anger.
The English 'kindle' is often translated directly as 火をつける, but for emotions, use かき立てる or 呼び起こす. Using 火をつける for emotions sounds unnatural.
The book kindled his interest.
彼は枯れ葉を燃やして火を起こした。
He kindled a fire by burning dead leaves.
彼は小枝を焚き付けて火を大きくした。
He kindled the fire by adding twigs.
Commonly used for arousing emotions, curiosity, or appetite. Literally 'stir up'.
The movie kindled his imagination.
To make emotions blaze up, like passion or anger. Stronger and more dramatic.
His words kindled her anger.
To evoke or awaken feelings or memories. Softer than 'kindle' but fits many contexts.
The music kindled nostalgic memories.
To fan or stir up, often used for negative emotions like fear or conflict.
His speech kindled anxiety in the crowd.