人影
also: じんえい
Meanings
1
figure of a person; human figure
Refers to the visible shape or silhouette of a person, often at a distance or in dim light. Can be singular or plural.
I saw a figure of a person in the distance.
There was no sign of people in the park at night.
2
shadow of a person
Specifically the shadow cast by a person, as opposed to the figure itself. Less common than sense 1.
A long shadow of a person stretched across the ground.
Usage patterns
- 〈場所〉に人影が見えるa human figure can be seen somewhere
I saw a figure of someone beyond the window.
- 人影が消えるa figure disappears from view
The figure disappeared around the corner of the alley.
- 人影一つないnot a single person in sight
There wasn't a soul in front of the station late at night.