How to say "depict" in Japanese

• 描くえがくJLPT N3approx.Common
  godan verb, transitive verbCovers 'depict' in the sense of drawing or portraying something, and also 'describe' in words. The most natural, versatile choice for depicting scenes, people, or feelings in art or writing.
• 写すうつすJLPT N4approx.Common
  godan verb, transitive verbGlossed 'to depict', but its core sense is copying or reproducing something as an image. Use it when depicting amounts to faithfully reflecting or transferring what is seen; otherwise 描く is usually better.
• 映し出すうつしだすCommon
  godan verb, transitive verbCovers 'depict' or 'portray' by projecting or bringing something vividly into view, as on a screen or in a striking representation. Suited to depicting images that emerge dramatically before the viewer.

For 'depict' in the visual or artistic sense, 「描く」 is the default; 「写す」 and 「映し出す」 both suggest representing or projecting something as an image, with 「映し出す」 emphasizing a vivid, revealed portrayal.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• 描くえがくto depict
• 写すうつすto describe
• 映し出すうつしだすto portray