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.

一抹(いちまつ) means "a touch" or "a trace" of something.

WORD FORMATION:

  • 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

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

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

general
Added 2026.1.31 11:26
09000/09074_ichimatsu