見計らう

みはからう

to choose at one's own discretion

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The verb 見計らう (みはからう) means to judge or decide the appropriate timing or method for something based on one's own discretion. It often implies careful observation or consideration before making a choice.

Common Contexts

This word is frequently used when someone is trying to find the best moment to act, such as entering a room, starting a conversation, or providing a service. It conveys a sense of tact and timing.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 見計らって + verb: to do something after judging the right timing or method.
  • タイミングを見計らう: to time something carefully.
  • 様子を見計らう: to gauge the situation before acting.

Register and Nuance

見計らう is a formal or literary verb often found in written Japanese or polite speech. It suggests thoughtful decision-making rather than impulsive action.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse 見計らう with simply "to see" (見る) or "to plan" (計画する). Remember that 見計らう specifically involves judging the right timing or method based on observation and discretion.

Example Sentences

かれはかいぎのかいしじかんをみはからってへやにはいった。

He timed his entry into the room according to the meeting's start time.

おきゃくさまのようすをみはからって、サービスをていきょうする。

We provide service by gauging the customer's situation.

かのじょはたいみんぐをみはからって、はなしをきりだした。

She chose the right timing to start the conversation.