Translation guide
The English word 'blinking' can refer to the rapid opening and closing of the eyes, or to the intermittent shining of a light. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both meanings.
To express the action of quickly closing and opening the eyes, either voluntarily or involuntarily.
The most common noun for a blink or blinking. Can be used with する to mean 'to blink'.
To describe a light that turns on and off repeatedly, or flashes intermittently.
彼女は驚いて瞬きをした。
She blinked in surprise.
瞬きの回数が増えた。
The number of blinks increased.
Verb meaning 'to blink' or 'to twinkle'. Often used for lights, but can refer to eyes. Slightly literary.
Onomatopoeic phrase for blinking repeatedly, often when surprised or confused. Casual.
子供は目をパチパチさせながら話を聞いていた。
The child was listening to the story, blinking repeatedly.
Verb form of 瞬き. Common in daily speech.
彼は何度も瞬きした。
He blinked many times.
Noun meaning 'flashing on and off', used for lights, indicators, etc. Often used with する.
信号が点滅している。
The traffic light is blinking.
パソコンのランプが点滅する。
The computer's light blinks.
Onomatopoeia for flickering or blinking light, often with a slightly annoying nuance. Casual.
蛍光灯がチカチカしている。
The fluorescent light is flickering.
Can also mean 'to blink' for lights, but more poetic. Often used for stars or distant lights.
遠くの灯りが瞬いている。
The distant lights are twinkling.