Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Flinch" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "flinch", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
たじろぐ
たじろぐ (tajirogu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
ひるむ
ひるむ (hirumu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "flinch" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between たじろぐ and ひるむ.
In Japanese, たじろぐ (たじろぐ (tajirogu)) is typically associated with "to flinch, to hesitate, to recoil" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used when one is intimidated, surprised, or taken aback by something or someone. It describes a momentary withdrawal or hesitation..
On the other hand, ひるむ (ひるむ (hirumu)) maps to "to flinch, to hesitate, to recoil (from fear/difficulty)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used when one feels a momentary loss of courage or hesitation when facing a challenge, danger, or fear. It can describe both a physical reaction. A literal translation of "flinch" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "たじろぐ"
彼の鋭い質問に、思わずたじろいでしまった。
I inadvertently flinched at his sharp question.
Bilingual Context for "ひるむ"
どんな困難にもひるまず、前向きに進む。
Without flinching from any difficulty, I will move forward positively.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の鋭い質問に、思わずたじろいでしまった。" (Meaning: "I inadvertently flinched at his sharp question.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "たじろぐ" fits here because it means "to flinch, to hesitate, to recoil" in the context of: "I inadvertently flinched at his sharp question.". "ひるむ" represents "to flinch, to hesitate, to recoil (from fear/difficulty)".