行き違い
also: ゆきちがい
Meanings
crossing without meeting; going astray
Describes two things (letters, people, messages) that pass each other without connecting, or something that goes to the wrong place. Often used in the phrase 行き違いになる.
Our letters crossed in the mail.
I missed him because we passed each other without meeting.
misunderstanding; disagreement; estrangement
Refers to a failure in communication or a clash of opinions that leads to a rift. Commonly used in interpersonal contexts.
A small misunderstanding led to a fight.
A disagreement arose between the two of them.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉が行き違いになるfor letters, messages, etc. to cross without connecting
It seems our letters crossed in the mail.
- 行き違いが起きるfor a misunderstanding to arise
A misunderstanding arose between the two of them.
- 行き違いを解消するto resolve a misunderstanding
We talked it out and resolved the misunderstanding.
- 〈人〉と行き違いがあるto have a misunderstanding or disagreement with someone
There was a misunderstanding with my boss, so things are a bit awkward.
Expressions
- 行き違いになるmiss each other; cross in the mail; go astray; go wrong