Translation guide
A small, quick flash of light, often reflected off a surface. In Japanese, this is expressed through onomatopoeia, verbs, and descriptive phrases depending on the type of glint.
Describe a brief, bright reflection or sparkle, like light off metal, glass, or water.
Onomatopoeic adverb for a single, sharp glint or sparkle. Often used with と and a verb like 光る.
彼の目がきらりと光った。
His eyes gave a glint.
Express a brief, revealing flash of emotion, such as anger, amusement, or determination, visible in someone's eyes.
きらり is for a single, sharp flash; きらめき is for continuous or beautiful glittering; ちらり implies a fleeting, almost secretive glimpse.
宝石がきらりと光った。
The jewel gave a glint.
湖のきらめきが目にしみた。
The glint of the lake was dazzling.
カーテンの隙間から光がちらりと差した。
A glint of light slipped through the curtain gap.
Noun for a glittering or twinkling light, often with a sense of beauty. Can be used for a glint that is repeated or sustained.
水面のきらめきが美しい。
The glint of the water surface is beautiful.
General verb meaning 'to shine' or 'to flash'. When describing a glint, it is often combined with an onomatopoeic adverb.
遠くで何かが光った。
Something glinted in the distance.
Verb meaning 'to glitter' or 'to sparkle'. More poetic than 光る, often used for beautiful, twinkling light.
星が煌めいている。
The stars are glinting.
Onomatopoeic adverb for a brief, fleeting glimpse or flash, often implying something seen momentarily. Can be used for a glint that is barely noticeable.
彼の目にちらりと怒りの色が見えた。
A glint of anger flickered in his eyes.
Literally 'eyes shine', used to describe a sharp, intense look, often with negative connotations like anger or suspicion.
彼は怒りで目が光っていた。
His eyes glinted with anger.
Literally 'light dwells in the eyes', a more poetic way to say there is a glint of life, passion, or determination.
彼女の目に強い意志の光が宿っていた。
There was a glint of strong will in her eyes.
Describes a sharp, piercing look, often implying a glint of intelligence or aggression.
彼の鋭い目つきに、一瞬の笑みが浮かんだ。
A glint of a smile crossed his sharp gaze.