expression, ichidan verb
squint; narrow one's eyes
Physical action of partly closing the eyes, often due to bright light, concentration, or trying to see something clearly.
強い日差しに、彼は目を細めた。
He squinted in the strong sunlight.
遠くの看板を見ようと、
Trying to read the distant sign, I narrowed my eyes.
expression, ichidan verb
smile warmly; look fondly
Describes a gentle, affectionate expression where the eyes narrow naturally while smiling; often implies warmth or fondness toward someone.
祖母は孫を見て、目を細めて微笑んだ。
The grandmother smiled warmly, her eyes narrowing as she looked at her grandchild.
彼は彼女の話を聞きながら、目を細めてうなずいた。
He nodded, looking fondly at her as he listened to her story.