Meaning
To intentionally ignore something undesirable.
Cultural Background
It is often used to maintain 'wa' (harmony). Used when a manager decides not to report a minor violation. Used between friends to avoid awkwardness.
Context is key
Always ensure the mistake is minor before using this phrase.
Don't use for crimes
Using this for serious issues makes you sound like you are hiding something.
Meaning
To intentionally ignore something undesirable.
Context is key
Always ensure the mistake is minor before using this phrase.
Don't use for crimes
Using this for serious issues makes you sound like you are hiding something.
Test Yourself
Which phrase means to ignore a mistake?
Choose the correct idiom.
This is the standard idiom for intentionally ignoring something.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesChoose the correct idiom.
This is the standard idiom for intentionally ignoring something.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes, but be careful. It sounds like you are the one deciding to be lenient.
It is neutral. It works in most settings.
Related Phrases
見て見ぬふり
synonymPretending not to see
黙認する
similarTacit approval
見逃す
similarTo overlook