JLPT N2 Upper Intermediate
冴える
To be clear, vivid, sharp, or mentally alert.
Readings
Other forms
冴えます polite form
冴えない plain negative
冴えて te-form
冴えた plain past
1 Ichidan Verb (Intransitive)
To be clear / vivid
Describes sensory inputs like colors or sounds that are exceptionally distinct, pure, and unclouded.
Example
冬 の 夜 は 月 が 冴えて 見える 。
On winter nights, the moon looks sharp and clear.
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2 Ichidan Verb (Intransitive)
To be clear-headed / alert
Indicates a state of heightened mental acuity where one feels fully awake and intellectually sharp.
Usage notes & examples
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3 Ichidan Verb (Intransitive)
To be sharp / impressive (or not)
Specifies that a skill, technique, or appearance is executed with brilliance and precision.
Usage notes & examples
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4 Ichidan Verb (Intransitive)
To be biting cold
Refers to the piercing nature of extreme cold that makes the air feel crisp and frozen.
Usage notes & examples
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