Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Taking" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "taking", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
見向き
みむき (mimuki)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
便乗
びんじょう (binjō)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "taking" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 見向き and 便乗.
In Japanese, 見向き (みむき (mimuki)) is typically associated with "taking notice, paying attention, glance" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used in negative contexts.
On the other hand, 便乗 (びんじょう (binjō)) maps to "taking advantage (of a situation), jumping on the bandwagon" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to taking advantage of an opportunity or a trend created by others for one's own benefit. Can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation of opportunism.. A literal translation of "taking" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "見向き"
彼は彼女に全く見向きもしなかった。
He didn't pay any attention to her at all.
Bilingual Context for "便乗"
セール期間に便乗して、欲しかったものをいくつか購入した。
I took advantage of the sale period and bought a few things I wanted.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は彼女に全く ＿＿＿ もしなかった。" (Meaning: "He didn't pay any attention to her at all.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "見向き" fits here because it means "taking notice, paying attention, glance" in the context of: "He didn't pay any attention to her at all.". "便乗" represents "taking advantage (of a situation), jumping on the bandwagon".