Translation guide
To be unclear, vague, or indistinct, whether referring to memories, vision, weather, or ideas.
Describing a memory or recollection that is unclear or vague.
Used for memories, statements, or boundaries that are vague or ambiguous.
その記憶は曖昧だ。
That memory is hazy.
Describes a memory that is faint or unclear, often with a nuance of being dreamlike.
子供の頃のことはぼんやりしている。
My childhood memories are hazy.
Literally 'not clear', used for memories or details that are not distinct.
あの日のことははっきりしない。
That day is hazy in my mind.
Describing a view, air, or weather condition that is not clear, often due to mist, smoke, or heat.
Used for landscapes or distant views obscured by haze, mist, or smog.
山が霞んでいる。
The mountains are hazy.
Literally 'a haze is hanging', used for misty or foggy conditions.
朝、街にもやがかかっている。
In the morning, the town is hazy.
Specifically for smoky or hazy air that irritates the eyes.
Describing thoughts, plans, or concepts that are not clearly defined or understood.
Used for vague ideas, plans, or anxieties that lack concrete form.
将来の計画はまだ漠然としている。
My future plans are still hazy.
Formal term for something unclear or indistinct, often used in written contexts.
彼の説明は不明瞭だった。
His explanation was hazy.
General phrase for something not clear or definite.
その計画はまだはっきりしていない。
The plan is still hazy.
Describing a state of mind that is not fully alert, such as when waking up or under the influence of medication.
Used when one's consciousness is fuzzy or not sharp.
熱で意識がぼんやりしている。
My mind is hazy from the fever.
Casual expression for feeling spaced out or lightheaded.
寝起きで頭がぼーっとする。
My head feels hazy when I wake up.
Describes a dazed or semi-conscious state, often due to exhaustion or intoxication.
彼は疲れで朦朧としている。
He is hazy with fatigue.
曖昧 (aimai) is used for ambiguity or vagueness in meaning, boundaries, or statements. 漠然 (bakuzento) is used for ideas, plans, or feelings that are vague and lack concrete shape. For memories, both can be used, but 曖昧 implies unclear details, while 漠然 suggests a faint overall impression.
English 'hazy' covers many situations, but Japanese uses different words for memory, weather, and ideas. Using 霞んでいる for a memory would sound unnatural. Choose the word that matches the specific context.
部屋が煙たくて、景色がかすんで見える。
The room is smoky and the view looks hazy.