Translation and Meaning of: 迷う - mayou

The Japanese word 「迷う」 (mayou) is a verb that is often translated as "to get lost" or "to be in doubt." The etymology of the word brings a rich history of meaning. The kanji 「迷」 (mei) is the main kanji, which carries the sense of "perplexity" or "confusion." This kanji relates to the idea of being lost, both physically and in terms of decision-making or thought.

The definition of 「迷う」 encompasses different aspects of the feeling of uncertainty. When someone says they are "mayou", it can refer to being physically lost in a place. However, the most common meaning relates to the mental state of doubt or indecision. This verb is widely used in everyday conversations when discussing difficult decisions, such as choosing which course to enroll in or deciding between two job opportunities.

In terms of origin and cultural usage, 「迷う」 is more than just being lost; it touches on cultural aspects of the Japanese mindset. In Japanese culture, indecision is not always viewed negatively. Sometimes, this state is considered a natural part of the decision-making process, allowing for reflection and careful consideration. Additionally, the concept of "ma" or "interval" in Japanese culture often values the space between decisions, where the time for "mayou" can be seen as an essential phase of contemplation.

Additionally, the term connects to philosophical expressions and concepts in Japan. For example, phrases like 「人生に迷う」 (jinsei ni mayou) can be translated as "losing oneself in life," addressing a universal theme of seeking purpose and direction. This connection with introspection makes 「迷う」 a multifaceted word, rich in both linguistic and cultural nuances.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 迷える (mayou) - To be disoriented, to be lost.
• 逡巡する (shunjun suru) - To hesitate, to waver when making a decision.
• ためらう (tamerau) - Hesitate, be indecisive in taking action
• ふらつく (furatsuku) - Waver, hesitate, have difficulty staying steady
• 悩む (nayamu) - Worry, anguish, be in doubt
• 狐につままれる (kitsune ni tsumamaru) - To feel confused, deceived, as if you have been tricked by a fox (often used to describe a situation of confusion)
• 真っ暗になる (makkura ni naru) - To become completely dark, which can refer to not seeing clear options or paths.
• 踏みとどまる (fumitodoru) - Stop, hold your ground, resist the temptation to move forward.

迷う

Romaji: mayou
Kana: まよう
Type: noun
L: -

Translation / Meaning: to be intrigued; to be perplexed; to lose the way

Meaning in English: to be puzzled;to be perplexed;to lose one's way

Definition: To be in a state where things are not clear.

Example Sentences - (迷う) mayou

See below some example sentences:

迷うことは人間らしい。

Mayou koto wa ningen rashii

It's human to feel lost.

It seems human to get lost.

• 迷う - (mayou) - means "to be lost" or "to be in doubt"
• こと - (koto) - means "thing" or "fact"
• は - (wa) - grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
• 人間 - (human) - means "human being"
• らしい - (rashii) - suffix that indicates that something is typical or characteristic of something or someone

私は十字路で迷っています。

Watashi wa juujiro de mayotte imasu

I'm lost at a crossroads.

I'm lost at the crossroads.

• 私 - The personal pronoun that means "I" in Japanese.
• は - topic particle that indicates that "I" is the topic of the sentence
• 十字路 - A palavra em japonês para "cruzamento" é クロスロード (kurosurōdo).
• で - particle that indicates the location where the action occurs, in this case, the "intersection"
• 迷っています - 迷っている (mayotte iru)