見送りをする

You use this phrase when a decision has been reached to stop or delay something. Usually, you place the thing you are postponing before the particle を. For example, 採用を見送りをする means putting off hiring someone. It sounds more deliberate than just forgetting. It implies you thought about it. Then, you chose to wait. It is a very common phrase in news headlines and office meetings.

Use it when the situation is a bit serious. It is perfect for business deals that feel risky. Use it when you are shopping for something expensive, like a car. If the price is too high, you 見送りをする. It also works for events canceled by bad weather. If it rains, you might 開催を見送りをする (put off holding the event). It shows you are making a responsible choice. It feels professional and thoughtful.

Do not use this for tiny, everyday choices. If a friend asks if you want water, do not say 見送りをする. That sounds like you are holding a board meeting about a glass of water! Also, avoid it for things you definitely hate. If you never want to see someone again, this phrase is too soft. It implies the door might still be open later. Use a direct 'no' or 'cancel' for those moments.

Japanese culture values 'Wa' or harmony. Saying a flat 'No' can feel like a slap in the face. 見送り is a beautiful linguistic cushion. It comes from the literal act of seeing a guest off at the station. You are being polite. You are showing respect to the idea before letting it go. It allows everyone to save face. It is the ultimate 'polite pass' in the corporate world.

The most common variation is the simple verb form 見送る. In very formal settings, you might hear 見合わせる. That one sounds even more cautious. If you want to be extra polite to a person, you add the prefix お. お見送りをする usually returns to the literal meaning of seeing someone off at the airport. Be careful with that 'O'—it changes the vibe completely!