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
赴任
ふにん (funin)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "taking" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 見向き and 赴任.
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, 赴任 (ふにん (funin)) maps to "taking up a new post (somewhere else), transfer to a new post" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to relocating for a new job assignment, often to a different city or country. Can be a noun or used with 〜する as a verb.. 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 "赴任"
彼は来月、海外に赴任することになりました。
He will be transferred overseas next month.
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.". "赴任" represents "taking up a new post (somewhere else), transfer to a new post".