Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Neglect" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "neglect", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
おろそかにする
おろそかにする (orosoka ni suru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
蔑ろ
ないがしろ (naigashiro)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "neglect" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between おろそかにする and 蔑ろ.
In Japanese, おろそかにする (おろそかにする (orosoka ni suru)) is typically associated with "to neglect, to be negligent, to slight" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Means to treat something lightly, carelessly, or not give it proper attention, often leading to negative consequences if it's something important..
On the other hand, 蔑ろ (ないがしろ (naigashiro)) maps to "neglect; disregard; make light of; ignore; treat with contempt; slight" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used to describe treating something/someone important or serious as insignificant, leading to negative consequences. Can apply to rules, feelings, responsibilities, etc.. A literal translation of "neglect" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "おろそかにする"
健康をおろそかにすると、病気になってしまう。
If you neglect your health, you will get sick.
Bilingual Context for "蔑ろ"
約束を蔑ろにしてはいけません。
You should not make light of promises.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "健康を ＿＿＿ と、病気になってしまう。" (Meaning: "If you neglect your health, you will get sick.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "おろそかにする" fits here because it means "to neglect, to be negligent, to slight" in the context of: "If you neglect your health, you will get sick.". "蔑ろ" represents "neglect; disregard; make light of; ignore; treat with contempt; slight".