Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Without" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "without", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
見向きもせず
みむきもせず (mimuki mo sezu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
無碍
むげ (muge)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "without" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 見向きもせず and 無碍.
In Japanese, 見向きもせず (みむきもせず (mimuki mo sezu)) is typically associated with "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..
On the other hand, 無碍 (むげ (muge)) maps to "without hindrance, without impediment, freely, unreservedly" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents 何の妨げもなく、自由に行動できること。また、遠慮なく振る舞う様子。仏教用語に由来する。. A literal translation of "without" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "無碍"
彼は社長相手にも無碍に自分の意見を述べた。
He freely expressed his opinion even to the president without hesitation.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は私の呼びかけに ＿＿＿ 通り過ぎた。" (Meaning: "He passed by without even looking at me, ignoring my call.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "見向きもせず" fits here because it means "without even looking, without paying any attention, ignoring completely" in the context of: "He passed by without even looking at me, ignoring my call.". "無碍" represents "without hindrance, without impediment, freely, unreservedly".