じっと
jitto EverydayCommon Casual to Semi-formal
Motionlessly, intently
What does じっと mean?
Describes staying perfectly still or staring fixedly at something without moving.
The Image: A state of frozen movement. It implies focus or endurance.
When to use it
- Staring into someone's eyes
- Staying still while waiting
- Enduring pain patiently
Translation Warning
Can apply to both sight ('jitto miru' - stare) and state ('jitto shite' - stay still).
Avoid using when:
- For lazy stillness (use 'darari')
- For short movements
Example Sentences
彼は私をじっと見つめた。
He stared at me fixedly.
Action痛みをじっと堪える。
I patiently endure the pain.
State