Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Look" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "look", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
目つき
めつき (metsuki)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
見下す
みくだす (mikudasu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "look" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 目つき and 見下す.
In Japanese, 目つき (めつき (metsuki)) is typically associated with "look, expression (of eyes), gaze" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes the expression or gaze in one's eyes, often implying a certain emotion or character. Can be positive or negative depending on context..
On the other hand, 見下す (みくだす (mikudasu)) maps to "to look down on, to despise, to scorn" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Expresses a feeling of superiority and disdain towards someone or something. It has a negative connotation.. A literal translation of "look" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "目つき"
彼の目つきはとても鋭かった。
His gaze was very sharp.
Bilingual Context for "見下す"
彼はいつも他人を見下すような態度をとる。
He always takes an attitude of looking down on others.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の ＿＿＿ はとても鋭かった。" (Meaning: "His gaze was very sharp.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "目つき" fits here because it means "look, expression (of eyes), gaze" in the context of: "His gaze was very sharp.". "見下す" represents "to look down on, to despise, to scorn".