Meaning and Usage
The verb 見送る (みおくる) primarily means "to see off" someone, such as at a station or airport. It is commonly used when bidding farewell to someone who is leaving.
Extended Meanings
Besides the literal sense of seeing someone off, 見送る can also mean "to pass up" or "to forgo" an opportunity, or "to postpone" or "put off" plans or decisions. This figurative use is common in business or everyday conversation.
Common Collocations
- 見送る (someone) を: to see someone off physically.
- チャンスを見送る: to pass up a chance or opportunity.
- 計画を見送る: to postpone or shelve a plan.
Register and Nuance
見送る is a neutral, polite verb suitable for both formal and informal contexts. When used in the figurative sense, it often implies a deliberate decision rather than accidental omission.
Learner Tips
Be careful not to confuse 見送る with 見える (to be seen) or 送る (to send). 見送る specifically involves the act of seeing someone off or deciding not to proceed with something. Context will usually clarify which meaning is intended.