Translation guide
The English word 'mirror' can refer to a physical reflective surface, a metaphorical reflection, or the act of reflecting. This guide covers common Japanese equivalents and usage.
Referring to a physical object that reflects images, such as a bathroom mirror, hand mirror, or wall mirror.
The most common and general word for 'mirror' in Japanese. Used for all types of mirrors.
I looked in the mirror and fixed my hair.
There was a large mirror in that room.
Specifically a full-length mirror, used to see one's whole figure.
I checked my whole outfit in the full-length mirror.
A hand mirror, small mirror held in the hand.
She touched up her lipstick using a hand mirror.
Two mirrors placed facing each other to create infinite reflections, or a setup to see the back of one's head.
I check the back of my hair using two mirrors.
Using 'mirror' to mean something that reflects or shows a true image, such as a reflection of society, personality, or a situation.
The action of reflecting an image, like a mirror does. Also, to copy or imitate.
Transitive verb meaning 'to reflect' or 'to project' an image onto a surface. The mirror is the subject that does the reflecting.
The mirror is reflecting my face.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to be reflected' or 'to show up' in a mirror. The image is the subject.
To reflect in a metaphorical sense, such as reflecting opinions or trends. Not used for physical mirror reflections.
To mirror someone's actions, meaning to imitate or copy. Not related to physical reflection.
Specifically mirrors on cars, bikes, etc.
映す (うつす) is transitive: 'X reflects Y'. 映る (うつる) is intransitive: 'Y is reflected (in X)'. Use を with 映す and が with 映る.
The loanword ミラー is mainly used in compound words like バックミラー or in brand names. For a standard mirror, always use 鏡 (かがみ). Using ミラー alone sounds unnatural.
She looked at herself in the mirror.
The lake was like a mirror.
His works are a mirror of the times.
This novel is a mirror reflecting modern society.
湖に山が映っている。
The mountains are reflected in the lake.
My reflection appeared in the mirror.
The policy reflects the voice of the people.
Children mirror their parents' behavior.
Fold in the side mirrors.
ドアミラーが壊れた。
The side mirror broke.