Translation guide
The English phrase "making allowances" refers to considering special circumstances, being lenient, or making concessions. This guide covers how to express these ideas naturally in Japanese.
To express that you are taking into account someone's difficulties or special circumstances and therefore being more forgiving or flexible.
Literally 'to look with big eyes', meaning to overlook or be lenient about something. Commonly used when forgiving minor mistakes or misbehavior.
Since it's your first mistake, I'll make allowances for it.
Means 'to take into consideration'. More formal and can be used in various contexts, not just for leniency.
Taking his circumstances into consideration, we extended the deadline.
Formal term meaning 'to take into consideration and make allowances', often used in legal or official contexts.
The judge made allowances for the defendant's family background.
To express that you are willing to adjust your demands or expectations to reach an agreement.
Means 'to concede' or 'to make a concession'. Used when you give in on a point during negotiations or discussions.
We made allowances for each other and reached an agreement.
Literally 'to attach a fold', meaning to compromise or find a middle ground. Often used in personal relationships.
To express that you are setting aside time, money, or resources for a specific purpose or unexpected event.
The English phrase 'making allowances' does not have a single direct equivalent in Japanese. Translating it literally as 手当てを作る (てあてをつくる) would be incorrect. Instead, choose the appropriate expression based on the intended meaning.
It's hard to make allowances with him.
We make allowances for inflation when budgeting.