見舞う in 30 Seconds
- To visit someone who is sick.
- To call on someone ill.
- To offer comfort and support.
- Can also describe disasters affecting a place.
- Core Meaning
- The primary meaning of 見舞う (mimawau) is to visit someone who is sick or unwell. It carries a sense of concern and offering comfort or support during their illness. This is the most common and central usage of the verb.
- Extended Meaning: Natural Disasters
- Beyond visiting people, 見舞う can also be used to describe the act of a natural phenomenon, such as a disaster or a strong wind, affecting or befalling a place or people. In this context, it means to strike, to hit, or to affect.
- Nuance of Care and Concern
- When visiting a sick person, the act of 見舞う implies genuine care and a desire to alleviate the person's suffering or loneliness. It's not just a casual visit; it's a visit with a purpose related to their well-being. This can include bringing gifts, offering help, or simply providing companionship.
- Common Scenarios for Sick Visits
- You would typically use 見舞う when visiting friends, family members, colleagues, or neighbors who are in the hospital or recuperating at home. It's a polite and considerate action that is highly valued in Japanese culture. Sending get-well cards or messages can also be seen as a form of 見舞う, especially if a physical visit is not possible.
- Usage with Natural Disasters
- In the context of disasters, 見舞う is often used in news reports or formal discussions. For example, a typhoon might 見舞う a region, or a natural disaster could 見舞う a community. This usage emphasizes the impact and often negative consequences of these events.
- Formality and Politeness
- The verb 見舞う is generally considered polite and appropriate for most social situations when referring to visiting the sick. It's not overly casual, nor is it excessively formal. The intention behind the visit is what gives the verb its weight.
When a friend is sick, it is natural to visit them to cheer them up. 見舞う.
The typhoon will 見舞う the island tonight.
- Visiting a Sick Friend
- This is the most common scenario. You visit a friend who is unwell. The sentence structure is typically: Person A は Person B を見舞う (Person A visits Person B).
- Visiting a Sick Family Member
- Similar to visiting a friend, but with closer emotional ties. The focus is on showing care and support.
- Visiting a Sick Colleague/Boss
- This usage demonstrates professional courtesy and concern for colleagues. It's important to be mindful of the relationship and the severity of their illness.
- Visiting Someone in the Hospital
- Hospitals are common places where people are 見舞う. The sentence would specify the location, e.g., 病院を見舞う (visit the hospital, meaning visit someone in the hospital).
- Describing Natural Disasters Affecting a Place
- In this context, the structure is often: Disaster/Phenomenon が Place/People を見舞う (Disaster/Phenomenon affects Place/People).
- Describing a Disaster Striking a Community
- This emphasizes the impact of a natural event on a larger group.
- Using the Verb in Past Tense
- To talk about a past visit or a past event, use the past tense form 見舞った (mimawatta).
- Using the Verb in Potential Form
- 見舞える (mimawaeu) means 'can visit', but it's less common for sick visits and more likely used metaphorically or for disaster contexts.
I will visit my sick grandmother tomorrow. 明日、病気のおばあさんを見舞うつもりです。
A heavy rainstorm visited the region last night. 昨夜、この地域に大雨が見舞った。
He visited his sick friend in the hospital. 彼は病気だった友達を病院に見舞った。
- News Reports on Disasters
- You will frequently hear 見舞う in news broadcasts and articles discussing natural disasters like typhoons, earthquakes, floods, or heavy snowfall. For instance, "typhoon number 10 visited the Tohoku region," or "heavy snow visited Hokkaido." This usage is very common in meteorological and disaster-related reporting.
- Conversations about Ill Relatives or Friends
- In everyday conversations among Japanese speakers, especially when discussing someone's health, you'll hear phrases like "I'm going to visit my sick aunt" (叔母さんを見舞いに行きます - obasan o mimai ni ikimasu) or "Did you visit Tanaka-san?" (田中さんを見舞いましたか？ - Tanaka-san o mimai mashita ka?). It's a natural and polite way to express visiting someone who is unwell.
- Hospital and Medical Settings
- While less direct, the concept is present. For example, a doctor might say, "We will observe the patient's condition" (患者の状態を見守ります - kanja no jōtai o mimamoru), and while 見守る (mimamoru - to watch over) is different, the underlying sentiment of care is related. However, when a visitor goes to a hospital, they are specifically there to 見舞う the patient.
- Formal Announcements and Reports
- In more formal contexts, such as company announcements about a colleague's illness or reports from organizations affected by disasters, 見舞う will be used. This reinforces its usage in both personal and more official capacities.
- Literature and Media
- You might encounter this word in novels, dramas, or movies, especially in scenes where characters are dealing with illness or the aftermath of natural disasters. It adds a layer of cultural nuance and politeness to interactions.
- Get-Well Messages
- While the word itself might not be in the message, the act of sending a get-well card or gift (お見舞い - omimai) is directly related to the concept of 見舞う.
The news reported that a severe drought visited the southern region. ニュースでは、南部に深刻な干ばつが見舞ったと報じられた。
My neighbor is sick, so I will visit her this afternoon. 近所の方が病気なので、今日の午後に見舞いに行きます。
- Confusing with 見る (miru) and 舞う (mau)
- The most basic mistake is to treat 見舞う as simply 'to see' (見る) or 'to dance' (舞う). While the kanji are derived from these, the compound verb has a specific meaning. You don't 'see' a sick person with this verb; you 'visit' them with care. Similarly, it has nothing to do with dancing in this context.
- Using it for Casual Visits
- 見舞う is specifically for visiting someone who is sick or affected by a disaster. It's inappropriate to use it for a casual social visit to a healthy friend or for a business meeting. For those situations, use verbs like 訪ねる (tazuneru - to visit), 会う (au - to meet), or 訪問する (hōmon suru - to visit, more formal).
- Confusing the Two Meanings
- Learners might mistakenly use the 'visit sick person' meaning when talking about disasters, or vice versa. The context is key. If you're talking about a typhoon, you're not visiting it; it's affecting the area. If you're talking about a friend, you're visiting them, not a disaster.
- Incorrect Object Particle
- The object of the visit (the sick person or the place affected by disaster) is usually marked with the particle を (o). Forgetting this particle or using the wrong one can lead to grammatical errors. For example, 「友達を見舞う」 (tomodachi o mimau) is correct, not 「友達に会う」 (tomodachi ni au) for a sick visit.
- Overusing the Disaster Meaning
- While the disaster meaning is valid, it's often used in more formal or news contexts. For everyday conversation about personal visits, stick to the 'visit sick person' meaning.
- Confusing with 見舞い (mimai)
- 見舞い (mimai) is the noun form, often used as お見舞い (omimai) meaning 'a visit to a sick person' or 'get-well gift'. While related, it's not the verb itself. You don't verb 'omimai'; you verb 'mimau'.
Incorrect: 友達に病気を見舞う. (Wrong particle)
Correct: 友達を見舞う.
- 訪ねる (tazuneru)
- Meaning: To visit, to call on.
Usage: This is a general-purpose verb for visiting someone or a place. It's neutral and can be used for friends, family, or even tourist spots. It does not carry the specific nuance of visiting someone who is sick or affected by a disaster.
Example: 友達を訪ねる (tomodachi o tazuneru - to visit a friend).
Difference: Less specific than 見舞う; doesn't imply illness or disaster. - お見舞い (omimai)
- Meaning: A visit to a sick person; a get-well gift.
Usage: This is the noun form. It's often used as お見舞い (omimai) meaning a gift brought when visiting someone who is ill, or the act of visiting itself.
Example: お見舞いに行きました (omimai ni ikimashita - I went to visit/bring a gift).
Difference: Noun vs. verb. It refers to the act or the gift, not the action of visiting. - 訪問する (hōmon suru)
- Meaning: To visit, to call on (more formal).
Usage: This is a more formal or official term for visiting, often used in business contexts, academic settings, or for official visits. It can also be used for visiting someone ill, but it sounds more formal than 見舞う.
Example: 担当者がお客様を訪問する (tantōsha ga okyakusama o hōmon suru - the representative will visit the client).
Difference: More formal than 見舞う; lacks the specific connotation of visiting the sick. - 見守る (mimamoru)
- Meaning: To watch over, to keep an eye on, to guard.
Usage: This verb means to observe or protect someone or something with care and attention, often from a distance. It implies a passive, protective presence.
Example: 子供たちが遊ぶのを見守る (kodomotachi ga asobu no o mimamoru - to watch over children playing).
Difference: Focuses on observation and protection, not active visiting. While related to care, it's not the same as physically going to see someone. - 襲う (osou)
- Meaning: To attack, to assault, to strike.
Usage: This verb is used for attacks, both physical and metaphorical, and importantly, for disasters striking a place. It's more forceful and often more negative than 見舞う for disaster contexts.
Example: 犯人が襲った (hannin ga osotta - the criminal attacked). 自然災害が地域を襲った (shizen saigai ga chiiki o osotta - a natural disaster struck the region).
Difference: 襲う is much more aggressive and negative, implying a direct attack or severe impact, whereas 見舞う for disasters is more about 'affecting' or 'befalling'.
I will visit my friend who is sick. 病気の友達を見舞います。
I will visit my friend. 友達を訪ねます。
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The kanji 舞 (mau) itself means 'to dance'. While it doesn't directly translate to the meaning of visiting someone sick, the visual of something 'dancing' or 'unfolding' might have metaphorically contributed to the sense of an event or action occurring. The verb 'mimawau' is often associated with the noun 'omimai' (お見舞い), which refers to the act of visiting or the gift brought during such a visit.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'mi' too short.
- Not lengthening the final 'u' sound.
- Incorrectly stressing the first syllable.
Difficulty Rating
The basic meaning of visiting the sick is easily understood. However, the secondary meaning related to disasters and abstract concepts requires more context and nuanced understanding. Reading news reports or literature might pose a challenge.
Using it correctly in sentences, especially differentiating between the two meanings and choosing the appropriate register, can be challenging for learners.
Pronunciation is relatively straightforward, but using the word naturally in conversation, particularly in appropriate social contexts, requires practice.
Recognizing the word in different contexts, especially when spoken quickly or in news reports about disasters, can be difficult.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using the particle を (o) with transitive verbs.
見舞う is a transitive verb, so the direct object (the person being visited or the place affected by disaster) is marked with を. Example: 友達を見舞う (visit a friend).
Using the 〜て行く/来る pattern for purpose.
お見舞いに行く (omimai ni iku) - to go to visit (sick person).
Using the passive form 〜に見舞われる.
災害に見舞われる (saigai ni mimawareru) - to be affected by a disaster.
Using the 〜ために construction for purpose.
お見舞いの品を買うために、店に行った。(I went to the store to buy a get-well gift.)
Using the 〜つもりです pattern for intention.
明日、病気のおじいさんを見舞うつもりです。(I plan to visit my sick grandfather tomorrow.)
Examples by Level
友達が病気です。
My friend is sick.
お見舞いに行きます。
I will go for a visit (to a sick person).
お見舞いの品です。
This is a get-well gift.
元気になってください。
Please get well soon.
病気の人に会います。
I will meet a sick person.
病院に行きます。
I will go to the hospital.
お見舞いはいつですか？
When is the visit (to the sick person)?
これはお見舞いです。
This is for your recovery.
病気のおじいさんを見舞いに行きました。
I went to visit my sick grandfather.
Verb 見舞う is used in its masu-stem form + に行く to express the purpose of the action.
友達が入院しているので、見舞いに行こう。
My friend is hospitalized, so let's go visit him.
Using the volitional form of the verb stem + う to suggest an action.
台風がこの地域を見舞った。
A typhoon visited this region.
The object of the disaster is marked with を.
お見舞いの品は何がいいですか？
What would be a good get-well gift?
Noun お見舞い is used here in the context of gifts.
先生は病気で学校を休みました。
The teacher was sick and took a day off from school.
お見舞い申し上げます。
I offer my regards (to the sick).
A polite set phrase used when visiting or sending regards to someone ill.
地震が多くの家を見舞った。
An earthquake visited many homes.
Disaster context, showing the impact on multiple dwellings.
お見舞いの時間は午後です。
Visiting hours are in the afternoon.
Refers to the time allowed for visits to patients.
病気で入院している友人を、週末に見舞う予定です。
I plan to visit my friend who is hospitalized due to illness this weekend.
The verb 'mimau' is in its dictionary form, followed by 'yotei desu' (plan to).
遠方に住む祖母が体調を崩したと聞き、すぐに見舞いに行った。
Hearing that my grandmother living far away had fallen ill, I immediately went to visit her.
Past tense of 見舞う (mimawatta) is used to describe a completed action.
昨夜、この地域に大きな被害をもたらす嵐が見舞った。
Last night, a storm that brought great damage visited this region.
The disaster context, where the storm is the subject causing the 'visit' (impact).
お見舞いの品として、果物かお菓子を持っていこうと考えています。
I am thinking of taking fruits or sweets as a get-well gift.
Noun phrase 'omimai no shina' (get-well gift) is used.
怪我をした同僚を見舞うために、病院へ向かった。
I headed to the hospital to visit my injured colleague.
Purpose clause: ～ために (tame ni) indicates the reason for going.
自然災害が頻繁に見舞う地域では、防災対策が重要だ。
In regions frequently visited by natural disasters, disaster prevention measures are important.
The verb is used in a general statement about recurring events.
お見舞いに伺う際は、事前に連絡を入れるのが礼儀です。
When visiting (someone sick), it is polite to contact them in advance.
Using the humble form of 'to go' (伺う - ukagau) when referring to the visit.
彼の突然の病状悪化は、家族に大きな衝撃を見舞った。
His sudden worsening of illness brought great shock to the family.
Abstract noun 'shōgeki' (shock) is the object being 'visited' (felt/experienced).
病気で長期療養中の友人に、定期的に手紙を書いて見舞っている。
I regularly write letters to my friend who is undergoing long-term treatment for illness, visiting them in spirit.
The verb is used in the -te iru form, indicating an ongoing action or habit.
長引く不況が多くの企業を見舞い、経営難に陥っている。
The prolonged recession has visited many companies, leading them into management difficulties.
Abstract noun 'fukyō' (recession) is the subject affecting companies.
お見舞いに伺う前に、病院の面会時間を確認しておくことをお勧めします。
Before visiting (a patient), I recommend confirming the hospital's visiting hours.
Using the polite recommendation form: ～ことをお勧めします (koto o osusume shimasu).
予期せぬ自然災害が地域社会に甚大な被害を見舞った。
An unexpected natural disaster inflicted severe damage upon the local community.
The object 'higai' (damage) is what is 'visited' (inflicted).
病状が安定してきたので、そろそろ病院に見舞いに行こうと思う。
Since their condition has stabilized, I'm thinking of going to the hospital to visit them soon.
Using the ～てきた (te kita) to indicate a change in state leading to a new intention.
彼の長年の功績を称えるべく、多くの関係者が彼を見舞いに訪れた。
In order to honor his many years of achievement, many associates visited him.
While 'tazuneru' is used here for the general visit, the context might imply a visit of congratulation or recognition, distinct from illness.
この小説では、主人公が故郷を襲った悲劇を見舞い、復興を目指す。
In this novel, the protagonist confronts the tragedy that struck his hometown and aims for recovery.
Here, 'mimau' is used metaphorically for confronting or dealing with a past tragedy.
お見舞いの品には、相手の好みに合わせたものが喜ばれる。
For get-well gifts, items tailored to the recipient's preferences are appreciated.
Discussing the selection criteria for 'omimai no shina'.
病に伏せっている恩師の元へ、教え子たちが交代で見舞いに訪れ、励ましの言葉をかけていた。
Students took turns visiting their teacher, who was confined to bed by illness, offering words of encouragement.
Combines 'mimai ni otozureru' (to visit for a sick call) with the idea of taking turns.
未曾有の自然災害がこの島を襲い、住民たちはかつてない困難に見舞われた。
An unprecedented natural disaster struck this island, and the residents were visited by challenges unlike any before.
'Mimawaru' used with an abstract noun 'konnan' (difficulty/challenge) to describe the impact of a severe event.
お見舞いの品を選ぶ際には、相手の健康状態やアレルギーの有無を考慮することが肝要である。
When selecting a get-well gift, it is crucial to consider the recipient's health condition and the presence of allergies.
'Kan'yō de aru' (is crucial/important) adds formality to the advice.
数年に一度、地域を襲う深刻な水不足は、住民生活に多大な影響を見舞っている。
The severe water shortage that strikes the region once every few years has brought about significant impacts on the residents' lives.
'Mimawatte iru' in this context implies a recurring or ongoing negative effect.
病状が安定したとはいえ、まだ予断を許さない状況であり、しばらくは見舞いを控えるべきだろう。
Although the condition has stabilized, the situation is still precarious, and it would be best to refrain from visiting for a while.
'Yodan o yurusanai' (precarious/cannot be predicted) adds nuance to the medical situation.
かつて栄華を誇った古都は、度重なる戦乱に見舞われ、その姿を大きく変えてしまった。
The ancient capital, once proud of its prosperity, was visited by repeated wars and significantly changed its appearance.
Describes the impact of historical events on a place.
お見舞いの品として高価なものを贈ることは、かえって相手に気を遣わせる可能性がある。
Giving expensive items as get-well gifts may, conversely, cause the recipient to feel overly indebted or burdened.
'Kaette' (on the contrary, conversely) highlights the potential unintended negative effect.
地球温暖化の影響で、世界各地で異常気象が見舞う頻度が増加している。
Due to the effects of global warming, the frequency of extreme weather events visiting various parts of the world is increasing.
Connects the verb to a global issue and statistical trends.
危篤の報を受け、遠方の地より駆けつけた一族郎党は、病床にある長老を見舞うべく、静かにその場に佇んだ。
Upon receiving news of the elder's critical condition, relatives and retainers who rushed from distant lands stood quietly, intending to visit the elder on their sickbed.
Uses archaic and formal language like 'kikoku' (critical condition) and 'ichizoku rōtō' (relatives and retainers).
その国は、長年にわたる内戦と度重なる自然災害に見舞われ、復興への道程は極めて険しいものとなっていた。
That country, having been visited by years of civil war and repeated natural disasters, found the path to recovery to be exceedingly arduous.
Combines multiple severe negative events impacting a nation.
お見舞いの品に込められた温かい心遣いは、病魔に苦しむ者の心を慰め、希望の光をもたらす。
The warm consideration embodied in get-well gifts soothes the hearts of those suffering from illness and brings a ray of hope.
Elevated language 'byōma ni kurushimu mono' (those suffering from illness) and 'kizukai' (consideration).
近年の異常気象は、単なる自然現象の範疇を超え、人類文明そのものに試練を見舞っているかのようである。
Recent extreme weather phenomena seem to go beyond the scope of mere natural occurrences and are presenting challenges to human civilization itself.
Philosophical and metaphorical use, framing extreme weather as a 'test' for civilization.
病床にある恩師の顔を拝し、長年の感謝の念を伝えるとともに、一日も早いご回復を心よりお祈り申し上げたい。
Upon seeing the face of my teacher on their sickbed, I wish to convey my gratitude for many years and sincerely pray for their swift recovery.
Highly formal and respectful language, including humble forms and honorifics.
その地域は、度重なる干ばつとそれに続く飢饉に見舞われ、住民たちは生存のための闘いを余儀なくされていた。
The region was visited by repeated droughts followed by famine, compelling residents to a struggle for survival.
Emphasizes the dire consequences of consecutive disasters.
お見舞いの品として、単に物を贈るだけでなく、相手の心に寄り添い、共感を示すことが何よりも大切である。
As a get-well gift, it is more important than anything else to empathize with and stand by the recipient's heart, rather than merely giving an object.
Focuses on the emotional and psychological aspect of 'omimai'.
現代社会は、経済的格差、環境破壊、そしてパンデミックといった複合的な危機に見舞われている。
Modern society is being visited by a complex array of crises, including economic disparity, environmental destruction, and pandemics.
Describes society itself as being 'visited' by multiple, interconnected crises.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— I will go to visit (a sick person).
友達が病気なので、今日はお見舞いに行きます。 (Tomodachi ga byōki nanode, kyō wa omimai ni ikimasu.) My friend is sick, so I will go visit them today.
— This is a get-well gift.
どうぞ、これをお見舞いの品です。 (Dōzo, kore o omimai no shina desu.) Please, this is a get-well gift.
— I offer my regards (to the sick).
この度は大変な状況とお察しいたします。心よりお見舞い申し上げます。 (Konotabi wa taihen na jōkyō to osasshi itashimasu. Kokoro yori omimai mōshiagemasu.) I understand this is a difficult situation. I sincerely offer my regards.
— To visit illness (used metaphorically or to describe the state of being sick).
彼は長年、病気を見舞われながらも頑張ってきた。 (Kare wa naganen, byōki o mimaware nagara mo ganbatte kita.) He has persevered for many years while being afflicted by illness.
— Was affected by a disaster.
この地域は度々、自然災害に見舞われている。 (Kono chiiki wa tabitabi, shizen saigai ni mimawarete iru.) this region is frequently affected by natural disasters.
— To visit (someone sick) (humble/polite).
来週、先生のお宅にお見舞いに伺います。 (Raishū, sensei no otaku ni omimai ni ukagaimasu.) Next week, I will visit the teacher's home.
— A get-well letter.
お見舞い状を書いて、友達に送った。 (Omimaijō o kaite, tomodachi ni okutta.) I wrote a get-well letter and sent it to my friend.
— To witness/observe the patient's condition.
医者は患者の病状を見舞った。 (Isha wa kanja no byōjō o mimatta.) The doctor observed the patient's condition.
— To befall difficulties.
予期せぬ困難に見舞われたが、乗り越えた。 (Yoki senu konnan ni mimawareta ga, norikoeta.) We were visited by unexpected difficulties, but we overcame them.
— Visitors (to a sick person).
お見舞い客が多くて、部屋が狭く感じる。 (Omimai-kyaku ga ōkute, heya ga semaku kanjiru.) There are many visitors, so the room feels cramped.
Often Confused With
While 'miru' means 'to see', 見舞う has a specific meaning of visiting someone ill or a disaster affecting a place. You don't just 'see' them; you actively visit or it affects them.
This is a general word for 'to visit'. 見舞う specifically implies the person being visited is sick or the place is affected by a disaster.
This means 'to watch over' or 'to guard', implying a passive, protective role, whereas 見舞う is an active visit or impact.
Idioms & Expressions
— To visit someone on their sickbed.
親友が病気で寝込んでいると聞き、すぐに病床を見舞った。 (Shin'yū ga byōki de nekonde iru to kiki, sugu ni byōshō o mimawatta.) Hearing that my best friend was bedridden with illness, I immediately visited their sickbed.
Neutral— To be struck by a disaster.
その国は度重なる内乱と飢饉に見舞われた。 (Sono kuni wa tabitabi no nairan to kikin ni mimawareta.) That country was struck by repeated civil unrest and famine.
Formal/News— To befall hardship or suffering.
人生で多くの苦難に見舞われたが、彼は決して諦めなかった。 (Jinsei de ōku no kunan ni mimawareta ga, kare wa kesshite akiramenakatta.) He experienced many hardships in life, but he never gave up.
Literary/Formal— To be blessed with good fortune.
予期せぬ幸運に見舞われ、彼の人生は一変した。 (Yoki senu kōun ni mimaware, kare no jinsei wa ippen shita.) He was blessed with unexpected good fortune, and his life changed completely.
Literary/Formal— I offer my deepest sympathies/condolences.
この度の不幸に際し、心よりお見舞い申し上げます。 (Konotabi no fukō ni sai shi, kokoro yori omimai mōshiagemasu.) On the occasion of this misfortune, I sincerely offer my deepest sympathies.
Very Formal/Solemn— To be afflicted by illness.
若くして病魔に見舞われ、彼は多くの苦しみを経験した。 (Wakaku shite byōma ni mimaware, kare wa ōku no kurushimi o keiken shita.) Afflicted by illness at a young age, he experienced much suffering.
Literary/Formal— To bring disaster upon.
彼の軽率な行動は、家族に災難を見舞った。 (Kare no keisotsu na kōdō wa, kazoku ni sainan o mimawatta.) His rash actions brought disaster upon his family.
Formal/Literary— Dealing with visitors (to a sick person).
病人の家族は、お見舞い客の対応に追われていた。 (Byōnin no kazoku wa, omimai-kyaku no taiō ni owarete ita.) The sick person's family was busy dealing with visitors.
Neutral— To be visited by one's fate or fortune (good or bad).
彼は生涯、様々な時運に見舞われた。 (Kare wa shōgai, samazama na jiyun ni mimawareta.) Throughout his life, he experienced various fortunes.
Literary/Formal— A visit to a sick person.
お見舞い状ではなく、直接病気見舞いに行くことにした。 (Omimaijō de wa naku, chokusetsu byōki mimai ni iku koto ni shita.) I decided to visit directly rather than send a get-well letter.
NeutralEasily Confused
Both relate to visiting or an event happening.
見舞う is specifically for visiting someone sick or a disaster affecting a place. 訪ねる (tazuneru) is a general term for visiting someone or somewhere, regardless of their condition. For example, you would 訪ねる a healthy friend, but 見舞う a sick friend.
病気のおばあさんを<mark>見舞う</mark>。 (Byōki no obāsan o mimawau.) To visit a sick grandmother. 友達を<mark>訪ねる</mark>。 (Tomodachi o tazuneru.) To visit a friend.
Both relate to events happening to a place or people.
見舞う, in the context of disasters, means 'to befall' or 'to affect' in a somewhat neutral or descriptive way. 襲う (osou) means 'to attack' or 'to strike' and carries a much stronger, more aggressive, and negative connotation, implying a direct assault. For example, a typhoon might 見舞う a town, but a criminal might 襲う a person.
嵐が町を<mark>見舞った</mark>。 (Arashi ga machi o mimawatta.) A storm visited the town. 強盗が銀行を<mark>襲った</mark>。 (Gōtō ga ginkō o osotta.) A robber attacked the bank.
Both involve care and observation.
見舞う means to actively visit someone who is sick to offer comfort. 見守る (mimamoru) means to watch over, to guard, or to keep an eye on someone or something, often from a distance, implying a passive, protective presence. You 見舞う a sick person, but you 見守る a child playing.
病気の人を<mark>見舞う</mark>。 (Byōki no hito o mimawau.) To visit a sick person. 子供たちを<mark>見守る</mark>。 (Kodomotachi o mimamoru.) To watch over children.
Both are nouns related to visiting the sick.
見舞う is the verb meaning 'to visit the sick'. お見舞い (omimai) is a noun that can refer to the act of visiting the sick or, more commonly, a get-well gift. You use the verb 見舞う to describe the action of visiting, and you might bring お見舞い as a gift during that visit.
友達を<mark>見舞う</mark>。 (Tomodachi o mimawau.) To visit a friend. お見舞いの品を渡す。 (Omimai no shina o watasu.) To give a get-well gift.
Both are verbs related to events happening.
見舞う, in its disaster context, means 'to befall' or 'to affect' in a way that is often descriptive. 被る (kaburu) means 'to suffer' or 'to endure' something negative, often directly experiencing the consequences. For example, a town might 見舞われる by a flood, but an individual might 被る damage or loss.
町が洪水に<mark>見舞われた</mark>。 (Machi ga kōzui ni mimawareta.) The town was visited by a flood. 彼は大きな損失を<mark>被った</mark>。 (Kare wa ōkina sonshitsu o kōmutta.) He suffered a great loss.
Sentence Patterns
Person A は Person B を 見舞う。
私は友達を 見舞う。
Disaster が Place を 見舞う。
台風が 町を 見舞う。
Person A は Person B に お見舞いに行く。
私は祖母に お見舞いに行く。
Person A は Person B を 見舞って、～。
友達を見舞って、元気になった。
Person A は Event に 見舞われる。
彼は事故に 見舞われる。
Event が Place に 被害を 見舞う。
地震が 村に 被害を 見舞う。
Person A は Person B を 見舞いに 訪れる。
教え子たちが先生を 見舞いに 訪れる。
Event が People に 困難を 見舞う。
経済不況が 人々に 困難を 見舞う。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High, especially in news and discussions about health or disasters.
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Using 見舞う for casual visits to healthy friends.
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Use 訪ねる (tazuneru) or 会う (au) for general visits.
見舞う specifically implies the recipient is sick or suffering. Using it for a casual visit to a healthy person would be inappropriate and confusing.
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Confusing the subject and object in disaster contexts.
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The disaster is usually the subject (marked with が), and the place/people affected are the object (marked with を). Example: 台風が町を 見舞った。
Incorrectly reversing this can lead to nonsensical sentences, like 'The town visited the typhoon'.
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Using 見舞う when the person is already recovered.
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Only use 見舞う when the person is currently sick or recovering.
Once they are well, you would use other verbs like 'visit' (訪ねる) or simply 'meet' (会う).
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Confusing 見舞う with 見守る (mimamoru).
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見舞う is to actively visit; 見守る is to passively watch over.
You visit a sick person (見舞う), but you watch over a child playing (見守る). The actions and intentions are different.
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Forgetting the particle を when using 見舞う.
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The direct object of the visit or impact is marked with を. Example: 友達を 見舞う。
Forgetting the particle can make the sentence grammatically incorrect or unclear.
Tips
The Art of Omimai
When visiting someone sick in Japan, bringing an 'omimai' (get-well gift) is customary. Think about items that are comforting and easy to consume, like fruits, jellies, or teas. Avoid overly strong scents or flowers that might be overwhelming. The act of giving the gift is as important as the gift itself.
Passive Voice for Disasters
When a place or people are affected by a disaster, the passive form '～に見舞われる' (ni mimawareru) is very common. For example, '多くの地域が地震に見舞われた' (Ōku no chiiki ga jishin ni mimawareta - Many regions were affected by the earthquake). This emphasizes the experience of being subjected to the event.
Beyond the Sick Visit
Remember that 見舞う has a broader application than just visiting the sick. It can describe the impact of abstract difficulties like economic recession or personal hardship. This extended usage allows for more nuanced expression in writing and formal contexts.
Stress and Vowel Length
Pay attention to the stress on the second syllable (mi-MA-u) and ensure the final 'u' is a long 'oo' sound. Incorrect stress or vowel length can make the word sound unclear or even change its meaning in some cases.
Sentence Building
Create your own sentences using both meanings of 見舞う. Try writing one about visiting a sick relative and another about a recent weather event in your area. This active practice will solidify your understanding.
Mimawau vs. Tazuneru
The key difference is the recipient's state. Use 見舞う for someone sick or in hardship. Use 訪ねる for general visits to friends, family, or places when they are well. This distinction is important for showing cultural awareness.
Kanji Clues
While the kanji 見 (see) and 舞 (dance) don't directly form the meaning, think of 'seeing' someone's plight or a disaster 'dancing' its way across the land. This can help recall the word's dual nature.
News and Formal Settings
You'll frequently encounter 見舞う in news reports about natural disasters and in formal announcements or literature discussing hardship. Recognizing these contexts will help you understand its usage.
Subtlety in Disaster Context
When used for disasters, 見舞う is often less about a direct 'attack' (like 襲う) and more about the event 'affecting' or 'befalling' a place or people. It can carry a sense of inevitability or consequence.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine you 'see' (見) your friend who is unwell, and you 'dance' (舞う) with joy when they recover. Or, think of a disaster 'dancing' (舞う) across the land, and you 'see' (見) its effects.
Visual Association
Picture yourself at a hospital bedside, holding a small gift (お見舞い), and saying 'I came to see you' (見舞いに来ました). For disasters, imagine a strong wind 'dancing' (舞う) through a town, and you 'see' (見) the destruction.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use both meanings of 'mimawau' in sentences within a week. For example, one sentence about visiting a sick relative, and another about a recent weather event affecting your city.
Word Origin
The verb 見舞う (mimawau) is formed from the verb 見る (miru - to see) and the verb 舞う (mau - to dance). However, the meaning of 'visiting the sick' or 'disaster befalling' is not a direct combination of these. The kanji 見 (mi) can also relate to 'witnessing' or 'observing' something happen, and 舞う (mau) can imply something happening or unfolding. The specific nuance of visiting someone ill or a disaster striking likely developed over time through usage.
Original meaning: The original meaning is not definitively established as a simple combination of 'see' and 'dance'. However, 'seeing' something happen and 'something unfolding' or 'occurring' are contributing ideas to its semantic development.
JaponicCultural Context
When using 見舞う for visiting the sick, be mindful of the person's condition and privacy. Avoid overly cheerful or demanding behavior. For disaster contexts, be respectful and avoid trivializing the suffering.
In English-speaking cultures, 'visiting the sick' is also common, but the term might be more general, like 'visiting a sick friend' or 'calling on someone ill'. The Japanese 'mimawau' carries a specific cultural weight of politeness and care, especially when paired with the concept of 'omimai'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Visiting a hospitalized friend.
- お見舞いに行きます。
- お見舞いの品です。
- 早く良くなってください。
- お見舞い申し上げます。
Discussing a recent natural disaster.
- 台風が見舞った。
- 被害に見舞われた。
- 多くの地域が災害に見舞われた。
- 復興が進む。
Sending get-well wishes.
- お見舞い状を書きます。
- お見舞いの品は何がいいですか？
- 早く元気になってね。
- お大事に。
Formal announcements about illness.
- 病気のため、お休みさせていただきます。
- 〇〇さんが病気で、お見舞いに行きました。
- お見舞い申し上げます。
- ご回復をお祈りいたします。
Describing abstract hardships.
- 困難に見舞われた。
- 苦難に見舞われた。
- 予期せぬ事態に見舞われた。
- 人生の試練。
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever visited someone who was sick in Japan? What did you bring?"
"What kind of natural disasters are common in your country? How do people usually react?"
"If a friend is sick, what's the first thing you would do?"
"How do you express sympathy to someone who has gone through a difficult experience?"
"What are some common ways to wish someone a speedy recovery?"
Journal Prompts
Write about a time you visited someone who was sick. Describe your feelings and what you did.
Imagine a natural disaster has occurred in your city. How would you describe its impact using the word 見舞う?
Reflect on the importance of visiting sick friends or family. How does it make you feel?
Consider the cultural differences in expressing sympathy or offering comfort. How does the concept of お見舞い compare to practices in your culture?
Write a short story where a character uses the verb 見舞う in both its meanings (visiting sick person and disaster affecting a place).
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe primary difference lies in the state of the person being visited. 見舞う is specifically used when visiting someone who is sick or ill, implying a desire to offer comfort and support. 訪ねる is a general term for visiting anyone or any place, regardless of their condition. So, you would 見舞う a sick friend but 訪ねる a healthy friend or a museum.
While the core meaning is for physical illness, it can sometimes be used metaphorically for someone experiencing significant hardship or emotional distress, especially when combined with phrases like '困難に見舞われる' (to befall difficulties). However, for a general 'tough time' without severe illness or disaster, 訪ねる or simply '話を聞く' (to listen to their story) might be more appropriate.
見舞う is the verb, meaning 'to visit someone sick'. お見舞い is a noun. It can mean the act of visiting someone sick (e.g., 'omimai ni iku' - to go for a sick visit) or, more commonly, a get-well gift that you bring when visiting someone sick (e.g., 'omimai no shina' - get-well gift).
In this context, the disaster or phenomenon is usually the subject, and the place or people affected are the object marked with を. For example, '台風がこの地域を見舞った' (A typhoon visited this region). It means the disaster struck or affected the area. The passive form '～に見舞われる' is also common, meaning 'to be affected by a disaster'.
Yes, using 見舞う to visit someone who is sick is considered polite and considerate in Japanese culture. It shows you care about their well-being. The formal expression 'お見舞い申し上げます' is even more polite.
Generally, gifts that are easy to digest and don't have strong smells are preferred for sick visits. Fruits, jellies, yogurts, or comforting items like warm socks or books are common. Avoid flowers with strong scents or anything too heavy. The idea is to bring something that aids recovery or provides comfort.
Yes, absolutely. If someone is recovering at home after surgery, they are considered to be sick or unwell, so visiting them would be described using 見舞う.
見舞う is more descriptive and less aggressive; it means 'to affect' or 'to befall'. 襲う is more forceful and negative, meaning 'to strike' or 'to attack'. A typhoon might 見舞う a town, but a tsunami might 襲う a coastal area.
Yes, for visiting someone who is well, you would typically use 訪ねる (tazuneru) or 訪問する (hōmon suru) for more formal visits. 見舞う is reserved for those who are sick or facing hardship.
While the primary meaning is for illness, the concept of offering comfort during hardship can extend. However, for grief, specific phrases like 'お悔やみ申し上げます' (okuyami mōshiagemasu - I offer my condolences) are more appropriate. 見舞う is not typically used for visiting someone who is grieving.
Test Yourself 10 questions
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Summary
見舞う is primarily used to describe visiting a sick person with care and concern. It also has a secondary meaning of a natural disaster affecting a place. Remember the object of the visit is marked with を.
- To visit someone who is sick.
- To call on someone ill.
- To offer comfort and support.
- Can also describe disasters affecting a place.
The Art of Omimai
When visiting someone sick in Japan, bringing an 'omimai' (get-well gift) is customary. Think about items that are comforting and easy to consume, like fruits, jellies, or teas. Avoid overly strong scents or flowers that might be overwhelming. The act of giving the gift is as important as the gift itself.
Context is Key
Always consider the context. If you're talking about a friend being ill, you'll use 見舞う to mean 'visit them'. If you're discussing a typhoon, you'll use 見舞う to mean 'affected the region'. The particle を is crucial in both cases, marking the object of the visit or the affected entity.
Passive Voice for Disasters
When a place or people are affected by a disaster, the passive form '～に見舞われる' (ni mimawareru) is very common. For example, '多くの地域が地震に見舞われた' (Ōku no chiiki ga jishin ni mimawareta - Many regions were affected by the earthquake). This emphasizes the experience of being subjected to the event.
Beyond the Sick Visit
Remember that 見舞う has a broader application than just visiting the sick. It can describe the impact of abstract difficulties like economic recession or personal hardship. This extended usage allows for more nuanced expression in writing and formal contexts.
Example
病気の友人を病院に見舞った。
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