Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Without" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "without", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
躊躇なく
ちゅうちょなく (chuuchonaku)
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 躊躇なく and 見向きもせず.
In Japanese, 躊躇なく (ちゅうちょなく (chuuchonaku)) is typically associated with "without hesitation, readily, promptly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Emphasizes doing something immediately or decisively, without thinking twice. Often used for positive or neutral actions that require quick decision-making or action..
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 "躊躇なく"
彼は躊躇なく新しい挑戦を受け入れた。
He accepted the new challenge without hesitation.
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 ＿＿＿ 新しい挑戦を受け入れた。" (Meaning: "He accepted the new challenge without hesitation.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "躊躇なく" fits here because it means "without hesitation, readily, promptly" in the context of: "He accepted the new challenge without hesitation.". "見向きもせず" represents "without even looking, without paying any attention, ignoring completely".