Translation guide
A 'feeler' is a tentative inquiry or proposal to gauge reactions or gather information. It can also refer to a sensory organ (like an insect's antenna) or a person's sensitivity. This guide focuses on the most common uses for English-speaking learners.
insect feeler
To express the idea of putting out a tentative question, suggestion, or proposal to see how people react or to gather information.
A noun meaning a preliminary inquiry or sounding out. Often used in business or formal contexts to describe making an informal approach to gauge interest or opinion.
I put out a feeler to him about the job.
It's just a feeler stage for now.
A common phrase meaning to sound out the situation or gauge someone's reaction. More casual and versatile than 打診.
Literally 'to feel the texture', meaning to probe for reactions or opinions. Slightly more direct than 様子をうかがう.
Literally 'to try hitting', meaning to try asking or sounding someone out. Very casual.
Let's put out a feeler even if it's a long shot.
To refer to the physical feelers of an insect or crustacean.
To describe someone's ability to sense things or pick up on subtle cues.
打診 is a formal noun often used in business settings for a preliminary inquiry or proposal. 様子をうかがう is a more general phrase meaning to gauge the situation or someone's mood, and can be used in casual conversation.
I'll put out a feeler to the client.
Let's put out a feeler and see how he is before inviting him.
The English word 'feeler' in the sense of a tentative inquiry does not have a direct single-word equivalent in Japanese. Using 触角 (antenna) metaphorically would sound strange. Use the phrases provided instead.
I'm just putting out a feeler to see if you're interested.
The company put out feelers about a possible merger.
Let's put out a feeler and see how he reacts before talking.
I'll put out a feeler to my boss first.
I put out a feeler, but he didn't seem very keen.
To put out a feeler or make a discreet inquiry. Often used when trying to find out information without being obvious.
I put out a feeler to him, but he didn't tell me anything.
The cockroach's feelers are moving.
He has sensitive feelers (emotionally).