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.
These curtains have faded from the sun.
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).
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.
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.
His face went pale when he heard the news.
Literally 'the blood drains away'. Emphasizes the sudden loss of color, often from fear.
To become pale or white. Can be used for faces or other things turning pale.
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.
The color of this wall has become quite dull.
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.
She lost all color, as if she had seen a ghost.
The color of my dyed hair has faded.