Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Glance" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "glance", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
一瞥
いちべつ (ichibetsu)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
一顧
いっこ (ikko)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "glance" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 一瞥 and 一顧.
In Japanese, 一瞥 (いちべつ (ichibetsu)) is typically associated with "a glance, a quick look" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Emphasizes a very brief, momentary look. Often used with verbs like 与える.
On the other hand, 一顧 (いっこ (ikko)) maps to "a glance, a look; (often used in negative contexts) paying attention to, giving consideration" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Often used in negative sentences like「一顧だにしない. A literal translation of "glance" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "一瞥"
彼は私に一瞥をくれて、すぐに目をそらした。
He gave me a glance and immediately looked away.
Bilingual Context for "一顧"
彼は私の忠告に一顧だにしなかった。
He didn't even give a glance to my advice / He paid no attention to my advice.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は私に ＿＿＿ をくれて、すぐに目をそらした。" (Meaning: "He gave me a glance and immediately looked away.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "一瞥" fits here because it means "a glance, a quick look" in the context of: "He gave me a glance and immediately looked away.". "一顧" represents "a glance, a look; (often used in negative contexts) paying attention to, giving consideration".