Translation guide
Expresses being deeply charmed, fascinated, or enchanted by someone or something. Japanese often uses passive or intransitive verbs to convey this state naturally.
To be deeply charmed or fascinated by something or someone, often in a positive, emotional way.
Passive form of 魅了する (to charm/captivate). The most direct and common way to say 'be captivated'. Works for people, art, performances, etc.
彼女の歌声に魅了された。
I was captivated by her singing voice.
To be so interested in something that you lose track of time or surroundings.
Means to be completely absorbed or obsessed with something. Very common for hobbies, games, or activities.
その小説に夢中になった。
I was captivated by the novel.
To be smitten or infatuated with someone, often in a romantic sense.
Both mean 'be captivated', but 魅了される is slightly more formal and often used for artistic or intellectual fascination. 心を奪われる is more emotional and poetic, emphasizing a stolen heart.
彼の講演に魅了された。
I was captivated by his lecture.
夕日に心を奪われた。
I was captivated by the sunset.
Do not directly translate 'be captivated' as 捕らえられる (captured physically). That implies being physically caught, not charmed. Use the expressions above for emotional fascination.
I was captivated by the beautiful imagery of that movie.
Literally 'have one's heart stolen'. A very natural, emotional expression for being completely captivated, often by beauty or charm.
その景色に心を奪われた。
I was captivated by the scenery.
彼の優しさに心を奪われました。
I was captivated by his kindness.
Means 'to become a captive' of something, implying you are so fascinated you can't escape its charm. Slightly more casual.
彼女の笑顔のとりこになった。
I became captivated by her smile.
Describes being in a dreamy, entranced state, often while watching or listening to something beautiful. Emphasizes the feeling of being spellbound.
彼女のピアノの演奏にうっとりした。
I was captivated by her piano performance.
The children are captivated by the new game.
Passive of 引き込む (to pull in). Used when a story, performance, or atmosphere draws you in and holds your attention.
その映画の世界に引き込まれた。
I was captivated by the world of that movie.
彼女にぞっこんだ。
He's completely captivated by her.