Translation guide
To be influenced, persuaded, or emotionally moved by someone or something, often implying a change in opinion, decision, or feeling.
To have one's opinion, decision, or action changed due to another's argument, persuasion, or pressure.
A general and neutral way to say 'be influenced by'. Can be used for both positive and negative influence.
彼の意見に影響された。
I was swayed by his opinion.
Literally 'to be swept away by'. Implies being carried along by a trend, emotion, or others' opinions without resistance. Often used when one goes along with the crowd.
周りの意見に流されて、反対できなかった。
I was swayed by the opinions around me and couldn't object.
Specifically means 'to be persuaded'. Used when someone convinces you through reasoning or argument.
彼の熱心な説明に説得された。
I was swayed by his passionate explanation.
Means 'to be moved (emotionally)'. Used when one's feelings or decision are swayed by an emotional appeal or touching story.
彼女の涙に心を動かされた。
I was swayed by her tears.
Means 'to be influenced/determined by'. Often used for being swayed by circumstances, conditions, or external factors rather than direct persuasion.
気分に左右されて決断を変えた。
I was swayed by my mood and changed my decision.
To have one's feelings or heart stirred by something beautiful, sad, or inspiring.
Literally 'one's heart is moved'. The most direct way to express being emotionally swayed or touched.
その映画に心を動かされた。
I was swayed by that movie.
Means 'to be deeply moved/impressed'. A common word for being emotionally touched by something.
彼の演奏に感動した。
I was swayed by his performance.
Literally 'one's chest is struck'. A more poetic expression for being deeply moved or emotionally struck.
その話に胸を打たれた。
I was swayed by that story.
To be moved back and forth physically, as by wind or waves.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to sway/shake/rock'. Used for objects being physically swayed.
木が風に揺れている。
The tree is swaying in the wind.
Passive of '揺さぶる' (to shake). Implies being shaken or jolted, often used metaphorically for emotional shock.
地震で家が大きく揺さぶられた。
The house was greatly swayed by the earthquake.
「に流される」 implies a passive, often negative, going along with the flow, while 「に影響される」 is neutral and can be positive or negative. Use 「に流される」 when you feel you lost your own will.
彼は悪い友達に流されて、非行に走った。
He was swayed by bad friends and turned to delinquency.
彼女は先生に影響されて、医者を目指した。
She was influenced by her teacher and aimed to become a doctor.
Avoid directly translating 'sway' as 「揺れる」 for non-physical meanings. It sounds unnatural. Use the phrases above for influence or emotion.
Avoid directly translating 'sway' as 「揺れる」 for non-physical meanings. It sounds unnatural. Use the phrases above for influence or emotion.