1.
ultramarine blue, deep vivid blue
A deep, vivid blue color traditionally derived from the mineral lapis lazuli. Widely used in Japanese art, particularly in nihonga (Japanese-style painting). Also used more broadly to describe a rich, deep blue in everyday language.
群青色の空が広がっていた。
A deep blue sky stretched out above.
夕暮れの海が群青に染まっていく。
The sea at dusk is being dyed in ultramarine blue.
この日本画には群青と金箔がふんだんに使われており、豪華な印象を与える。
This Japanese-style painting uses ultramarine blue and gold leaf abundantly, giving a luxurious impression.
USAGE:
Often used in compound form 群青色 to explicitly mean "ultramarine color." A culturally significant pigment in traditional Japanese painting (日本画), where it is one of the most prized mineral pigments. Also commonly encountered as an evocative color word in literature and song lyrics.
NOTE:
The Yoasobi song "群青" (2020) made this word widely known among younger generations.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 群青色: ultramarine blue (as a color name)
- 群青の空: deep blue sky
- 群青の海: deep blue sea