Translation guide
Describes something that is not clear or sharp, such as an image, memory, or boundary. Japanese uses different expressions depending on what is blurred and why.
The image or view is not sharp or clear.
General word for something being out of focus or hazy. Often used for photos, TV screens, or vision.
写真がぼやけている。
The photo is blurred.
テレビの画面がぼやけて見えにくい。
The TV screen is blurred and hard to see.
Specifically out of focus, often used for photography. Can be a noun or する verb.
この写真、ピンボケだね。
This photo is out of focus, isn't it?
To become hazy or misty, often due to distance, fog, or tears. More poetic.
遠くの山がかすんで見える。
The distant mountains look blurred/hazy.
A memory or idea is not sharp or distinct.
Vague, ambiguous. Used for memories, statements, or boundaries.
子供の頃の記憶はあいまいだ。
My childhood memories are blurred/vague.
Dimly, vaguely. Often used with 覚えている (remember) or している (is hazy).
The line between two things is not clear.
Also used for blurred boundaries or definitions.
公私の境界があいまいだ。
The boundary between public and private is blurred.
Not clear, indistinct. Can be used for boundaries, distinctions, or statements.
その違いははっきりしない。
The difference is blurred/unclear.
One's eyesight becomes unclear temporarily.
Vision becomes blurred, often due to tears or fatigue.
涙で視界がかすんだ。
My vision blurred with tears.
General blurriness of vision, e.g., when not wearing glasses.
その日のことはぼんやりとしか覚えていない。
I only have a blurred memory of that day.
目が疲れて文字がぼやける。
My eyes are tired and the letters are blurred.