B1 adjective Neutro 2 min de leitura

眩しい

mabushii /ma.ɕiː/
Practice it

Overview

The Japanese word '眩しい' (mabushii) is an adjective primarily used to describe something that is dazzling, glaring, or bright, often to the point of being overwhelming or causing one to squint. Its core meaning revolves around intense light that affects one's vision.

Beyond its literal sense of describing strong light, '眩しい' can also be used metaphorically. For instance, it can describe someone who is exceptionally beautiful, radiant, or has an overwhelming presence. In this context, it implies a dazzling quality that captivates and perhaps even slightly intimidates, much like bright light. It can also be used to describe something that is so brilliant or impressive that it makes one feel a sense of awe or even a touch of envy, as if their own achievements pale in comparison.

The kanji '眩' itself carries the meaning of dizziness or vertigo, which connects to the idea of being overwhelmed or disoriented by intense visual stimuli. The 'しい' ending is characteristic of 'i-adjectives' in Japanese, meaning it can directly modify nouns (e.g., 眩しい光 - mabushii hikari - dazzling light) and its form changes when used in different grammatical contexts (e.g., 眩しくなる - mabushikunaru - to become dazzling).

Examples of its usage include:

  • 太陽が眩しい (Taiyou ga mabushii): The sun is dazzling/bright.
  • 彼女の笑顔は眩しい (Kanojo no egao wa mabushii): Her smile is radiant/dazzling.
  • 彼の才能は眩しい (Kare no sainou wa mabushii): His talent is brilliant/dazzling.

Understanding the nuances of '眩しい' allows for a richer appreciation of its application in both literal and figurative contexts, highlighting its versatility in conveying intensity, beauty, and even a sense of overwhelming brilliance.

Exemplos

1

太陽が眩しい。

Describes the bright sun.

The sun is dazzling.

2

彼女の笑顔は眩しい。

Metaphorical use, implying beauty or brilliance.

Her smile is dazzling.

3

ステージのライトが眩しい。

Describes bright stage lights causing discomfort.

The stage lights are glaring.

4

未来は眩しいばかりだ。

Metaphorical use, expressing optimism.

The future is so bright.

5

新緑が目に眩しい季節になった。

Describes the vibrant green of new leaves in spring.

It's become the season where the fresh green leaves are dazzling to the eyes.

Colocações comuns

眩しい 日差し
眩しい 光
眩しい 笑顔
眩しい 瞬間

Frequentemente confundido com

眩しい vs 目映い

Although 眩しい and 目映い share the same meaning of 'dazzling' or 'bright', 眩しい is more commonly used in everyday conversation. 目映い often carries a more literary or poetic nuance.

Padrões gramaticais

〜て眩しい (e.g., 光が強くて眩しい - The light is strong and dazzling) 〜と眩しい (e.g., 太陽を見ると眩しい - It's dazzling when you look at the sun) 眩しいほどの〜 (e.g., 眩しいほどの笑顔 - A dazzling smile)

How to Use It

Notas de uso

When using '眩しい,' it's important to consider the context to convey the intended meaning accurately. It directly translates to 'dazzling,' 'glaring,' or 'bright.' For literal light sources, like the sun or bright lights, it's a straightforward descriptor (e.g., 太陽が眩しい - 'The sun is dazzling'). However, its metaphorical use adds depth. When describing a person, it implies their radiance, talent, or beauty is so striking it's almost overwhelming (e.g., 彼女の笑顔は眩しい - 'Her smile is dazzling'). It can also be used to express admiration for someone's success or aspirations. It's an adjective, so it directly modifies nouns. For instance, '眩しい光' (mabushii hikari) means 'dazzling light.' The '-ii' ending indicates it's an i-adjective. Its usage can range from a simple observation to a profound emotional reaction.

Erros comuns

A common mistake is confusing '眩しい' (mabushii - dazzling, glaring, bright, blinding) with similar-sounding or related adjectives. For example, '明るい' (akarui) means generally 'bright' or 'cheerful' but doesn't carry the sense of being overwhelmed by light. '輝かしい' (kagayakashii) means 'brilliant' or 'radiant' and is often used for achievements or glory, not just light itself. '光る' (hikaru - to shine, to glitter) is a verb. Remember that '眩しい' specifically conveys the sensation of light being too intense or striking.

Contexto cultural

In Japan, '眩しい' (mabushii) often evokes a sense of beauty and awe beyond just physical brightness. While it certainly describes glaring light, it's also commonly used metaphorically to describe something or someone exceptionally brilliant, beautiful, or admirable that might even be a little overwhelming. For example, a rising star in sports or entertainment might be described as '眩しい' due to their overwhelming talent and presence. It can also refer to a cherished memory or a future filled with hope, suggesting a brilliance that is almost too good to be true. This nuanced usage highlights a cultural appreciation for things that are captivating and extraordinary, even if they are intense.

Dica de memorização

Visualize someone feeling '眩しい' (mabushii) from the bright sun, shielding their eyes. Think of 'まぶしい' sounding like 'my bushy' eyebrows, which you might squint through when it's bright.

Perguntas frequentes

4 perguntas

The Japanese word for 'Dazzling; glaring; bright.' is 眩しい (mabushii). It's an i-adjective often used to describe light that is so bright it's hard to look at, or to express a feeling of being overwhelmed by something brilliant or beautiful.

眩しい is pronounced 'ma-bu-shee'. The 'ma' is like the 'ma' in 'mama', 'bu' is like the 'boo' in 'book', and 'shee' is like the 'she' in 'shepherd' followed by a long 'ee' sound.

Certainly! You could say: '太陽が眩しいです' (Taiyou ga mabushii desu), which means 'The sun is dazzling.' Or, '彼女の笑顔は眩しい' (Kanojo no egao wa mabushii), meaning 'Her smile is radiant/dazzling.'

Yes, beyond just physical brightness, 眩しい can also carry a metaphorical sense. It can describe someone or something that is so brilliant, wonderful, or admirable that it makes you feel a bit overwhelmed or even a little inferior. For example, a young, talented person might be described as 眩しい by an older, more experienced individual.

Teste-se

fill blank

太陽がとても___ので、サングラスが必要です。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
fill blank

彼女の笑顔は___ほど美しかった。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
fill blank

新しい才能が___ばかりだ。

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:

Pontuação: /3

Related Content

Foi útil?

Comentários (0)

Faça Login para Comentar
Nenhum comentário ainda. Seja o primeiro a compartilhar suas ideias!