1.
briefly; fleetingly; for a moment; with a glance
Describes something appearing or being seen only briefly or fleetingly, often implying a quick, partial glimpse rather than a full view.
A mimetic adverb (onomatopoeia/擬態語) describing a quick, fleeting glimpse or appearance. Almost always followed by the particle と when modifying a verb.
Common collocations
- ちらりと見る: to glance at
- ちらりと見える: to be briefly visible
- ちらりと覗く: to take a quick peek
- ちらりと目をやる: to cast a quick glance
Similar words
- ちらっと: same meaning but slightly more casual and conversational
- ちらちら: repeated or continuous flickering/fluttering (e.g., snow falling, lights flickering)
- じろじろ: staring intently — the opposite nuance, implying a rude or prolonged gaze
Usage
Implies the action is quick, discreet, and often intentionally brief. Can suggest that the viewer does not want to be noticed looking, or that the object of sight appeared only momentarily.