うっすら

adverb

faintly, slightly

1. faintly, slightly, dimly, vaguely

Describes something that is barely perceptible or just slightly visible.

うっすらと雪(ゆき)が積(つ)もっている。

Snow has accumulated slightly.

うっすら覚(おぼ)えている。

I vaguely remember.

朝日(あさひ)がうっすらと見(み)えてきた。

The morning sun began to appear faintly.

うっすら describes something barely perceptible — a thin layer, a faint impression, or a vague sensation. Related to 薄(うす)い (thin, faint).

Forms

うっすら (standalone)
うっすらと + verb (with particle と)
うっすらした + noun (as modifier, less common)

Common collocations

うっすら覚(おぼ)えている: to vaguely remember
うっすらと見(み)える: to be faintly visible
うっすら雪(ゆき)が積(つ)もる: a thin layer of snow accumulates
うっすら汗(あせ)をかく: to break a light sweat
うっすらと笑(わら)う: to smile faintly

Usage

Applies to visual, physical, and mental impressions. Conveys delicacy — just enough to notice but not strong or clear. Often creates an atmospheric or subtle mood in descriptions.

general

Added 2026.2.5 23:29 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01

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