出直し

でなおし

adjustment, touch up

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word 出直し (でなおし) primarily means "starting over" or "making a fresh start." It is often used when someone or something needs to try again after a failure or an unsatisfactory result. It can imply a literal or figurative restart, such as redoing a task, retaking an exam, or reconsidering an approach.

Common Contexts

出直し is frequently used in formal and informal situations where a second attempt or a reconsideration is necessary. It carries a nuance of self-reflection and improvement before trying again.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 出直しをする: to start over or retry
  • 出直してくる: to come back after reconsidering or improving
  • 出直しが必要だ: a fresh start is necessary

These patterns emphasize the action of returning or retrying with a better approach.

Register and Nuance

This word is neutral to slightly formal and is common in both spoken and written Japanese. It often implies humility or acknowledgment of a need to improve.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse 出直し with simple "fixing" or "adjusting" (like 修正). However, 出直し implies a more comprehensive restart or retry rather than just a minor correction. Avoid using it for small tweaks; it fits better when the whole approach or attempt is reconsidered.

Example Sentences

このきかくはうまくいかなかったので、でなおしがひつようだ。

This project didn't go well, so a fresh start is necessary.

しっぱいしたしけんは、でなおしてもういちどうけるつもりだ。

I plan to retake the failed exam after starting over.

かれはじぶんのたいどをはんせいして、でなおしてきた。

He reflected on his attitude and came back with a fresh start.