Translation guide
The English word "ignore" can be expressed in Japanese through various verbs and phrases that convey different nuances, from deliberately disregarding someone or something to simply not paying attention. The most common and versatile equivalent is 無視する (mushi suru), but other options like シカトする (shikato suru) for slang, 見て見ぬふりをする (mite minu furi o suru) for pretending not to see, and 聞き流す (kikinagasu) for letting something go in one ear and out the other, provide a range of expressions depending on context and formality.
To intentionally pay no attention to someone or something, often as a form of rejection or disrespect.
The standard and most common verb for 'ignore'. It can be used for people, rules, advice, etc. It implies a conscious decision to disregard.
He ignored my message.
You must not ignore your boss's advice.
Slang term for ignoring someone, especially in social situations. Often used among younger people. Can be considered rude.
My friend ignored me yesterday.
Literally 'to pretend not to see'. Used when you notice something but choose to ignore it, often to avoid involvement.
Noun form of 無視する. Often used in compounds or formal contexts.
To fail to notice or consider something, often unintentionally or due to carelessness.
To intentionally not follow instructions, rules, or warnings.
The standard verb for ignoring rules, advice, or warnings.
To try not to let a physical or emotional sensation affect you.
Can be used for ignoring pain or emotions, though sometimes other expressions are more natural.
無視する is the standard, neutral term for ignoring. シカトする is slang and can sound harsh or childish. Use 無視する in most situations, and シカトする only with close friends in very casual settings.
Ignoring the teacher is rude. (Using シカトする here emphasizes the rudeness.)
He ignored the person in trouble (pretended not to see).
His behavior is complete ignorance.
To overlook, miss, or fail to notice something. Often used for details, mistakes, or important points.
I overlooked an important point.
Don't overlook that mistake.
To ignore what someone says, to let it go in one ear and out the other. Often used for complaints, gossip, or unimportant talk.
I always ignore his complaints (let them go in one ear and out the other).
Can also be used for unintentionally ignoring, but usually implies some awareness.
He seems to be ignoring my existence.
There are many drivers who ignore traffic rules.
Literally 'not obey/follow'. A more direct way to say you don't follow rules or advice.
He ignored the doctor's instructions (did not follow them).
Slang for completely ignoring, often used in online contexts. Very casual.
I completely ignored his DM.
I ignored the pain and kept running.
To not mind, not care about. Often used for ignoring minor discomforts or worries.
Ignore his words (don't mind them).
Avoid directly translating 'ignore' as 無視する in all contexts. For example, 'ignore the noise' might be better expressed as 騒音を気にしない (don't mind the noise) or 騒音に慣れる (get used to the noise) depending on the nuance.
Please ignore the noise (don't mind it).