Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Neglect" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "neglect", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
怠る
おこたる (okotaru)
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 怠る and 蔑ろにする.
In Japanese, 怠る (おこたる (okotaru)) is typically associated with "to neglect, to be negligent, to be idle" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to failing to do something that should be done, often due to laziness or carelessness. Can imply a lack of effort or responsibility..
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 "怠る"
勉強を怠ると、試験に落ちるだろう。
If you neglect your studies, you will probably fail the exam.
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: "勉強を ＿＿＿ と、試験に落ちるだろう。" (Meaning: "If you neglect your studies, you will probably fail the exam.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "怠る" fits here because it means "to neglect, to be negligent, to be idle" in the context of: "If you neglect your studies, you will probably fail the exam.". "蔑ろにする" represents "to neglect, to disregard, to make light of, to treat slightingly".