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Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "Turn" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "turn", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

翻す

ひるがえす (hirugaesu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

目を向ける

めをむける (me wo mukeru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "turn" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 翻す and 目を向ける. In Japanese, 翻す (ひるがえす (hirugaesu)) is typically associated with "to turn over; to change; to reverse; to flap (a flag)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 物理的に物を裏返す、または意見、方針、決定などを急に、あるいは完全に変更することを指します。. On the other hand, 目を向ける (めをむける (me wo mukeru)) maps to "to turn one's eyes to, to pay attention to, to focus on, to consider" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents An idiomatic expression meaning to direct one's attention, interest, or concern towards something or someone, often something that was previously overlooked or neglected. Implies active consideration.. A literal translation of "turn" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "翻す"
彼は自分の意見を簡単に翻した。
He easily changed his opinion.
Bilingual Context for "目を向ける"
私たちはもっと社会の弱い立場の人々に目を向けるべきだ。
We should pay more attention to people in vulnerable positions in society.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "彼は自分の意見を簡単に翻した。" (Meaning: "He easily changed his opinion.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "翻す" fits here because it means "to turn over; to change; to reverse; to flap (a flag)" in the context of: "He easily changed his opinion.". "目を向ける" represents "to turn one's eyes to, to pay attention to, to focus on, to consider".