Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Without" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "without", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
すかさず
すかさず (sukasazu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
見向きもせず
みむきもせず (mimuki mo sezu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "without" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between すかさず and 見向きもせず.
In Japanese, すかさず (すかさず (sukasazu)) is typically associated with "without delay, instantly, immediately, promptly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Adverb. Implies acting quickly and without hesitation in response to a situation or opportunity. Often used for quick reactions or seizing chances..
On the other hand, 見向きもせず (みむきもせず (mimuki mo sezu)) maps to "without even looking, without paying any attention, ignoring completely" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A strong expression indicating a complete lack of interest or attention towards something or someone, often implying a deliberate act of ignoring.. A literal translation of "without" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "すかさず"
彼は相手のミスをすかさず攻めた。
He immediately attacked his opponent's mistake.
Bilingual Context for "見向きもせず"
彼は私の呼びかけに見向きもせず通り過ぎた。
He passed by without even looking at me, ignoring my call.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は相手のミスを ＿＿＿ 攻めた。" (Meaning: "He immediately attacked his opponent's mistake.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "すかさず" fits here because it means "without delay, instantly, immediately, promptly" in the context of: "He immediately attacked his opponent's mistake.". "見向きもせず" represents "without even looking, without paying any attention, ignoring completely".