Meaning and Usage
The verb 睨む (にらむ) primarily means "to glare at" or "to stare" with a strong, often hostile or suspicious gaze. It is commonly used when someone looks at another person or object with intensity, sometimes implying anger, suspicion, or deep concentration.
Common Contexts
- Expressing anger or displeasure by glaring at someone.
- Observing someone or something suspiciously.
- Concentrating hard on something, such as reading or analyzing.
Collocations and Patterns
- 怒って睨む (おこってにらむ): to glare angrily.
- 目を睨む (めをにらむ): to stare with eyes fixed.
- 相手を睨む (あいてをにらむ): to glare at the other person.
Register and Nuance
睨む is generally neutral but can carry a negative or intense nuance depending on context. It is more forceful than simply "looking" or "watching," often implying emotional intensity.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 睨む with 見る (to see/look) or 眺める (to gaze/watch), but 睨む specifically involves a strong, often hostile or suspicious gaze. Avoid using it for neutral or casual looking situations.