Translation guide
The English phrasal verb "blow off" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: releasing something forcefully, ignoring or skipping something, and expressing anger or dismissal.
To cause something to come off or be removed by blowing air, wind, or an explosion.
Literally 'blow and send flying'. Used for wind or explosions removing something.
強風が屋根を吹き飛ばした。
The strong wind blew the roof off.
Intransitive: 'to be blown off/away'. Use when the subject is the thing being removed.
帽子が風で吹き飛んだ。
My hat blew off in the wind.
Specifically for blowing out a flame (candle, lighter). Not for physical objects.
ろうそくを吹き消した。
I blew out the candle.
To intentionally not attend or do something you were supposed to, often casually or irresponsibly.
Slang from 'sabotage'. Means to skip work/school/obligations. Very common and casual.
授業をサボって映画を見に行った。
I blew off class and went to see a movie.
To stand someone up or skip an appointment/meeting without notice. Stronger nuance of irresponsibility.
To ignore someone or something. Can be used for 'blow off' when meaning to disregard a person or message.
彼は私のメッセージを無視した。
He blew off my message.
To express anger or frustration, often by shouting or complaining; or to dismiss something as unimportant.
To yell or shout angrily. Used when 'blow off' means to vent anger verbally.
上司に怒鳴ってしまった。
I blew off at my boss.
To reject or dismiss something with a single kick (metaphorically). For 'blow off' as dismissing an idea or criticism.
彼は批判を一蹴した。
He blew off the criticism.
To let something go in one ear and out the other; to pay no attention. For casually dismissing someone's words.
Do not translate 'blow off' literally as 吹く (to blow) + オフ. This makes no sense in Japanese. Always use the appropriate verb or phrase for the intended meaning.
サボる is for skipping routine activities (class, work). すっぽかす is for failing to show up for a specific appointment or person, often without notice. サボる can be used for a single instance or habitually; すっぽかす is usually a one-time act.
彼は約束をすっぽかした。
He blew off our appointment.
彼の文句は聞き流した。
I just blew off his complaints.