synonym Comparative
うつむく
VS
目を向ける
Differences Between "うつむく" and "目を向ける"
Option A
うつむく
Meaning
to look down; to cast one's eyes down
Reading
うつむく (utsumuku)
Syllabus Level
N2
Practical Example
彼女は恥ずかしそうにうつむいた。
She looked down shyly.
Option B
目を向ける
Meaning
to turn one's eyes to, to pay attention to, to focus on, to consider
Reading
めをむける (me wo mukeru)
Syllabus Level
N2
Practical Example
私たちはもっと社会の弱い立場の人々に目を向けるべきだ。
We should pay more attention to people in vulnerable positions in society.
Which one to use?
Select the correct Japanese word for this context
Which word fits this context: "(to look down; to cast one's eyes down)"?
🎉 正解 / Correct!
使い分け解説:
- うつむく: Often associated with shyness, sadness, shame, or deep thought. Physical action of lowering the head.
- 目を向ける: An idiomatic expression meaning to direct one's attention, interest, or concern towards something or someone, often something that was previously overlooked or neglected. Implies active consideration.
- うつむく: Often associated with shyness, sadness, shame, or deep thought. Physical action of lowering the head.
- 目を向ける: An idiomatic expression meaning to direct one's attention, interest, or concern towards something or someone, often something that was previously overlooked or neglected. Implies active consideration.
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