一 抹(いちまつ)

いちまつ

noun

a touch; a tinge; a trace; a hint

1. a touch; a tinge; a trace; a hint

A slight amount or trace of something, typically used with emotions or abstract qualities. Often implies something negative or concerning.

一抹(いちまつ)の不安(ふあん)を感(かん)じる。

I feel a tinge of anxiety.

一抹(いちまつ)の寂(さび)しさが残(のこ)った。

A touch of loneliness remained.

成功(せいこう)したが、一抹(いちまつ)の後悔(こうかい)がある。

I succeeded, but I have a trace of regret.

Forms

一(いち) (one) + 抹(まつ) (wipe, smear, stroke)
Originally referred to a single brushstroke

Common collocations

一抹(いちまつ)の不安(ふあん): a touch of anxiety
一抹(いちまつ)の寂(さび)しさ: a trace of loneliness
一抹(いちまつ)の後悔(こうかい): a hint of regret
一抹(いちまつ)の疑念(ぎねん): a trace of doubt
一抹(いちまつ)の望(のぞ)み: a glimmer of hope

Usage

Almost always used with feelings or abstract qualities, especially negative ones like anxiety, doubt, loneliness. The phrase suggests something subtle but noticeable.

Common patterns

Typically used as: 一抹(いちまつ)の + [emotion/abstract noun]

general

Added 2026.1.31 11:26 · Revised 2026.9.30 5:45

09000/09074_ichimatsu