expression, ichidan verb
decide the outcome; determine victory or defeat
Used when a single event, moment, or factor becomes the decisive turning point that separates success from failure, win from loss.
この一打が試合の明暗を分けた。
This one shot decided the outcome of the match.
最終日のプレゼンが両社の明暗
The final-day presentation will likely determine which company comes out on top.
expression, ichidan verb
be sharply contrasted; show a stark difference
Describes two things, situations, or people whose outcomes, qualities, or fates are dramatically different, often in a way that highlights a clear contrast.
同じ環境で育ったのに、二人の人生は明暗を分けた。
Although they grew up in the same environment, their lives turned out sharply different.
今回の試験結果が、努力した者としなかった者の明暗を分けた。
This exam result sharply separated those who worked hard from those who did not.