Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "See" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "see", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
見送る
みおくる (miokuru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
見届ける
みとどける (mitodokeru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "see" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 見送る and 見届ける.
In Japanese, 見送る (みおくる (miokuru)) is typically associated with "to see off; to let pass (a chance/opportunity)" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Commonly used for seeing someone off at a station or airport. It can also mean to postpone or let an opportunity pass..
On the other hand, 見届ける (みとどける (mitodokeru)) maps to "to see (something) through, to make sure (of something), to witness" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Implies watching something from beginning to end, or confirming a result. Used when you observe something until its conclusion or ensure its outcome.. A literal translation of "see" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "見送る"
友達を空港まで見送りました。
I saw my friend off at the airport.
Bilingual Context for "見届ける"
彼女は友人の夢が実現するまで見届けた。
She witnessed her friend's dream come true.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "友達を空港まで見送りました。" (Meaning: "I saw my friend off at the airport.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "見送る" fits here because it means "to see off; to let pass (a chance/opportunity)" in the context of: "I saw my friend off at the airport.". "見届ける" represents "to see (something) through, to make sure (of something), to witness".