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
蔑ろにする
ないがしろにする (naigashiro ni suru)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "neglect" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between おろそかにする and 蔑ろにする.
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, 蔑ろにする (ないがしろにする (naigashiro ni suru)) maps to "to neglect, to disregard, to make light of, to treat slightingly" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents ルール、忠告、感情、義務など、本来重要であるはずのものを軽んじたり、無視したりすることを表します。しばしば悪い結果を招きます。. 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 "蔑ろにする"
環境保護の重要性を蔑ろにしてはならない。
We must not disregard the importance of environmental protection.
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.". "蔑ろにする" represents "to neglect, to disregard, to make light of, to treat slightingly".