Translation guide
The English verb 'kindle' has two main uses: starting a fire and arousing emotions. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both.
To light or start a fire, often with kindling or small flames.
General phrase for lighting a fire, such as a campfire or stove. Literally 'attach fire'.
彼はマッチでたき火に火をつけた。
He kindled a bonfire with a match.
Formal or technical term for ignition, used for engines, gas stoves, or rockets.
エンジンを点火してください。
Please kindle the engine.
To burn something intentionally. Can be used for kindling a fire by burning materials.
To light kindling or fuel to start a fire. Also used figuratively for stirring up emotions.
To stir up or inspire feelings like passion, interest, or anger.
The English 'kindle' is often translated directly as 火をつける, but for emotions, use かき立てる or 呼び起こす. Using 火をつける for emotions sounds unnatural.
その本が彼の興味をかき立てた。
The book kindled his interest.
He kindled a fire by burning dead leaves.
彼は小枝を焚き付けて火を大きくした。
He kindled the fire by adding twigs.
Commonly used for arousing emotions, curiosity, or appetite. Literally 'stir up'.
その映画は彼の想像力をかき立てた。
The movie kindled his imagination.
To make emotions blaze up, like passion or anger. Stronger and more dramatic.
彼の言葉が彼女の怒りを燃え上がらせた。
His words kindled her anger.
To evoke or awaken feelings or memories. Softer than 'kindle' but fits many contexts.
その音楽は懐かしい思い出を呼び起こした。
The music kindled nostalgic memories.
To fan or stir up, often used for negative emotions like fear or conflict.
彼の演説は群衆の不安を煽った。
His speech kindled anxiety in the crowd.