Translation guide
Expressing that someone pretends not to know something. In Japanese, this is often conveyed through set phrases, idiomatic expressions, or descriptive verbs rather than a single direct translation.
To describe the act of pretending to be unaware of something, often to avoid responsibility or awkwardness.
A common, slightly casual phrase meaning 'pretending not to know' or 'feigning ignorance'. Often used when someone deliberately ignores something they should acknowledge.
He feigned ignorance of my question.
A verb meaning 'to play dumb' or 'to feign ignorance'. Often used when someone acts innocent or pretends not to understand something they clearly know.
An idiomatic expression meaning 'to feign ignorance' or 'to act innocent', often with a nuance of denying involvement or knowledge of something one is clearly responsible for.
A straightforward phrase meaning 'to pretend not to know'. More literal than 知らんぷり, and can be used in both casual and formal contexts.
A compound verb meaning 'to feign complete ignorance' or 'to play innocent'. Emphasizes a more deliberate or blatant act of pretending.
知らんぷり focuses on the act of ignoring or pretending not to notice, often in social situations. とぼける is more about playing dumb or acting innocent, often in response to a direct question or accusation. 白を切る is stronger and implies denying responsibility.
知らんぷりしないで、正直に言ってください。
Don't pretend you don't know; please be honest.
彼はその件についてとぼけていた。
He was feigning ignorance about the matter.
Don't play dumb; tell me what you know.
彼は自分の失敗に白を切った。
He feigned ignorance about his own mistake.
She pretended not to know me even though she saw me.
He feigned complete ignorance and said he knew nothing.
He pretended not to notice me.
He played dumb at that question.