Translation guide
The light produced by a lamp. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with the noun 灯り (akari), which broadly means 'light' from a lamp or other source. More specific terms exist for different contexts.
To refer to the light emitted by a lamp, lantern, or similar device.
The most common and versatile word for light from a lamp, lantern, or other artificial source. Can also refer to the lamp itself.
The lamplight is on in the room.
He read a book by lamplight.
Literally 'lamp's light'. More specific than 灯り, explicitly stating the source is a lamp.
The lamplight illuminated the room.
A somewhat literary or formal term for lamplight or lamp flame. Often used in written language or poetic contexts.
The lamplight went out.
To evoke the gentle, warm glow of a traditional Japanese lamp (e.g., andon, bonbori).
Specifically the light from an andon, a traditional paper-covered frame lamp. Conveys a warm, old-fashioned atmosphere.
The inn room was lit by the soft lamplight of an andon.
Light from a bonbori, a small paper lantern often used in festivals or traditional settings.
灯り (akari) specifically refers to light from an artificial source like a lamp, often with a warm connotation. 光 (hikari) is a more general term for light, including natural light (sunlight, moonlight) and bright artificial light. Use 灯り for lamplight, candlelight, etc., and 光 for broader contexts.
The garden was lined with the lamplight of bonbori lanterns.