Translation guide
Describes when something fades, becomes paler, or loses its original color. The best Japanese expression depends on whether the change is due to sunlight, washing, aging, or a sudden loss of color (like from shock or fear).
To describe colors gradually becoming lighter or duller over time, especially for fabrics, photos, or painted surfaces.
The most common and natural verb for colors fading due to sunlight, washing, or age. Intransitive.
このカーテンは日焼けで色あせてしまった。
These curtains have faded from the sun.
何度も洗ったので、Tシャツの色があせた。
The T-shirt lost its color after being washed many times.
Often used for color running or fading from washing, especially when dye comes out. Can be used as a noun (色落ち).
このジーンズは色落ちしやすいので、単独で洗ってください。
These jeans lose color easily, so please wash them separately.
A formal or technical term for fading or discoloration. Common in written descriptions or product labels.
直射日光により退色する恐れがあります。
There is a risk of fading due to direct sunlight.
To describe a person's face losing color, often from fear, shock, or illness.
Literally 'complexion turns pale'. The most natural way to say someone's face loses color from shock or fear.
その知らせを聞いて、彼は顔色が青ざめた。
His face went pale when he heard the news.
Literally 'the blood drains away'. Emphasizes the sudden loss of color, often from fear.
幽霊を見たかのように、彼女は血の気が引いた。
She lost all color, as if she had seen a ghost.
To become pale or white. Can be used for faces or other things turning pale.
彼は恐怖で青白くなった。
He turned pale with fear.
To describe colors becoming dull, less bright, or less intense, not necessarily from damage.
For colors becoming dull, muted, or lacking brightness. Often used for skin, paint, or fabric that has lost its luster.
この壁の色はだいぶくすんできた。
The color of this wall has become quite dull.
年をとると肌の色がくすむ。
As you age, your skin loses its brightness.
For colors becoming lighter or less intense, often used for dyed hair or excitement fading. Intransitive.
色あせる is a general term for fading from age, sun, or washing. 色落ちする specifically refers to dye coming out, often during washing, and can imply the color transfers to other items.
The direct translation '色を失う' (いろをうしなう) is not natural in most contexts. Use the specific verbs above depending on the situation.
The color of my dyed hair has faded.