Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Untie" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "untie", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
解く
とく (toku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
紐解く
ひもとく (himotoku)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "untie" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 解く and 紐解く.
In Japanese, 解く (とく (toku)) is typically associated with "to untie, to unfasten, to unravel, to solve (a problem, a mystery)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents This verb has two main uses: 1. To untie or unfasten something.
On the other hand, 紐解く (ひもとく (himotoku)) maps to "to untie (a string, etc.), to open (a book), to delve into, to unravel (a mystery, history)" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Often used metaphorically for 'unraveling' or 'delving into' complex subjects like history, mysteries, or ancient texts, rather than literally untying a physical string. It implies careful examination and understanding.. A literal translation of "untie" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "解く"
私は数学の難しい問題を解くのが好きです。
I like solving difficult math problems.
Bilingual Context for "紐解く"
古文書を紐解き、当時の生活を想像した。
I delved into ancient documents and imagined life at that time.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私は数学の難しい問題を ＿＿＿ のが好きです。" (Meaning: "I like solving difficult math problems.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "解く" fits here because it means "to untie, to unfasten, to unravel, to solve (a problem, a mystery)" in the context of: "I like solving difficult math problems.". "紐解く" represents "to untie (a string, etc.), to open (a book), to delve into, to unravel (a mystery, history)".