1.
solemn; sublime; majestic
Describes something that inspires awe through its grandeur, dignity, or sacred quality. Used for religious settings, grand ceremonies, natural landscapes, and architecture.
荘厳な雰囲気に包まれた。
I was enveloped in a solemn atmosphere.
大聖堂の内部は荘厳な美しさに満ちていた。
The interior of the cathedral was filled with sublime beauty.
山の頂から見た朝日は荘厳で、思わず息を飲んだ。
The sunrise seen from the mountaintop was so majestic that I involuntarily held my breath.
USAGE: 荘厳 is a na-adjective used in literary and formal contexts. It describes an elevated, awe-inspiring quality that goes beyond mere beauty. It is often used for religious architecture, sacred rituals, and grand natural scenery.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 荘厳な雰囲気 (solemn atmosphere)
- 荘厳な儀式 (solemn ceremony)
- 荘厳な音楽 (majestic music)
- 荘厳な建築 (sublime architecture)
SIMILAR WORDS: Compare with 厳粛 (grave, solemn), which emphasizes seriousness and gravity, while 荘厳 emphasizes grandeur and sublimity. 荘厳 often implies visual or spatial impressiveness, whereas 厳粛 focuses on a serious, reverent mood.