Meaning and Usage
The verb 逃がす (にがす) means "to let go," "to set free," or "to let escape." It is often used when someone intentionally or unintentionally allows a person, animal, or opportunity to get away.
Common Contexts
- Releasing animals or fish back into nature, e.g., 魚を逃がす (to release fish).
- Letting a criminal or someone you are pursuing escape, often with regret.
- Missing or failing to seize an opportunity.
Collocations and Patterns
- 逃がす + object (e.g., 犯人を逃がす): to let someone escape.
- チャンスを逃がす: to miss a chance.
- 逃がしてしまう: expresses regret or unintended letting go.
Nuances and Tips
When using 逃がす, the speaker often implies some responsibility or regret for letting something or someone go. It is a transitive verb, so it always takes a direct object.
Be careful not to confuse 逃がす (to let escape) with 逃げる (にげる), which means "to escape" and is intransitive. For example, 犯人が逃げる means "the criminal escapes," while 犯人を逃がす means "to let the criminal escape."
This verb is common in both formal and informal contexts but often appears in news reports, stories, and everyday conversation about missed chances or escapes.