Meaning and Usage
"後回し" (あとまわし) means postponing or putting something off to a later time. It is often used when deciding to delay a task or responsibility in favor of something else.
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used in everyday conversation about time management, prioritizing tasks, or delaying decisions. It can carry a slightly negative nuance if important matters are postponed unnecessarily.
Collocations and Patterns
- 後回しにする: to postpone or put off something
- 〜を後回しにする: to delay a specific task or issue
- 重要なことを後回しにする: to put off important matters
Register and Nuance
"後回し" is neutral and common in both casual and formal contexts. However, in formal writing, more specific terms like "延期" or "遅延" might be preferred.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "後回し" with "延期" (postponement) which is more formal and often used for scheduled events. "後回し" emphasizes the act of delaying in daily decisions rather than official rescheduling.