Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "See" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "see", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
見破る
みやぶる (miyaburu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
見通す
みとおす (mitoosu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "see" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 見破る and 見通す.
In Japanese, 見破る (みやぶる (miyaburu)) is typically associated with "to see through (a trick, a lie), to expose, to discern" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Implies successfully uncovering something hidden, deceptive, or difficult to ascertain, such as a trick, a lie, or someone's true intentions. It means to discern the truth behind an appearance..
On the other hand, 見通す (みとおす (mitoosu)) maps to "to see through, to foresee, to have a clear view" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Can be used for literal sight. A literal translation of "see" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "見破る"
彼は相手の嘘をすぐに見破った。
He immediately saw through the other person's lie.
Bilingual Context for "見通す"
彼はそのプロジェクトの成功を最初から見通していた。
He foresaw the success of that project from the beginning.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は相手の嘘をすぐに見破った。" (Meaning: "He immediately saw through the other person's lie.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "見破る" fits here because it means "to see through (a trick, a lie), to expose, to discern" in the context of: "He immediately saw through the other person's lie.". "見通す" represents "to see through, to foresee, to have a clear view".