synonym Comparative
左右
VS
うやむや
Differences Between "左右" and "うやむや"
Option A
左右
Meaning
left and right; influence; control; sway
Reading
さゆう (sayū)
Syllabus Level
N3
Practical Example
彼の意見がプロジェクトの成否を左右するだろう。
His opinion will determine the success or failure of the project.
Option B
うやむや
Meaning
vague; obscure; undecided; ambiguous; left unsettled
Reading
うやむや (uyamuya)
Syllabus Level
N2
Practical Example
その事件はうやむやのまま終わってしまった。
The incident ended up remaining vague and unresolved.
Which one to use?
Select the correct Japanese word for this context
Which word fits this context: "(left and right; influence; control; sway)"?
🎉 正解 / Correct!
使い分け解説:
- 左右: Can refer to physical left and right, or metaphorically to influence/control. When used as a verb 左右する (sayū suru), it means 'to influence' or 'to sway'.
- うやむや: Describes something that is left unclear or unresolved, often intentionally so, leaving doubt or ambiguity. Often used with にする (ni suru) to mean 'to leave something vague/unsettled.'
- 左右: Can refer to physical left and right, or metaphorically to influence/control. When used as a verb 左右する (sayū suru), it means 'to influence' or 'to sway'.
- うやむや: Describes something that is left unclear or unresolved, often intentionally so, leaving doubt or ambiguity. Often used with にする (ni suru) to mean 'to leave something vague/unsettled.'
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