Translation guide
The English verb 'permeate' describes something spreading throughout and becoming present in every part of something else. It can be physical (a smell, liquid) or abstract (an idea, feeling). Japanese uses different verbs depending on what is permeating and what it is permeating.
To describe a smell, liquid, gas, light, or other physical thing spreading through and filling a space or substance.
Most common for liquids, smells, or colors soaking into a material. Emphasizes absorption and deep penetration.
The rain permeated the ground.
The smell of cigarettes has permeated my clothes.
Used when a gas, smell, or atmosphere fills an entire room or enclosed space. Often intransitive with が.
The scent of flowers permeated the room.
Technical or formal term for liquids or ideas permeating. Often used in scientific contexts or metaphorically for policies, ideas.
Water permeates the soil.
To describe an idea, feeling, mood, or cultural element spreading throughout a group, society, or work.
Common for abstract concepts like ideas, values, or trends spreading through society or an organization.
That idea has permeated society widely.
New technology has permeated daily life.
Emphasizes that something has spread to every corner or person. Often used for information, rules, or a mood.
Literary or emotional nuance; often used for feelings, cold, or a mood deeply penetrating one's heart or body.
To describe something passing through a physical barrier like a membrane, wall, or filter.
染み込む is everyday language for liquids/smells soaking into fabric, wood, etc. 浸透する is more formal/technical and can be used for both physical and abstract permeation. For abstract ideas spreading in society, 浸透する is the standard choice.
Soy sauce permeated the tablecloth.
The idea of democracy permeated.
While 浸透する can be used for smells, 染み込む or 充満する are more natural for everyday situations like food smells or perfume. Using 浸透する for a room filled with a smell sounds overly technical.
The precautions permeated to everyone.
Sadness permeated the venue.
His words permeated my heart.