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間違い
machigai
mistake
この答えは間違いです。
This answer is a mistake.
neutral
An error or fault resulting from incorrect judgment, action, or calculation.
間違いを直す
to correct a mistake
間違いを犯す
to make a mistake
Often used in contexts like exams, work, or daily life where an error is identified.
neutral
A disagreement or conflict between people.
二人の間に間違いが起きた
A disagreement arose between the two.
Less common than the first sense but still used in formal contexts.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Mistake: Confusing 間違い with 間違える
間違い is a noun meaning 'mistake,' while 間違える (machigaeru) is a verb meaning 'to make a mistake.' For example, '間違いをする' (to make a mistake) vs. '間違える' (to make a mistake).
Gold Rule
When to Use 間違い
Use 間違い when referring to the result of an error (e.g., 'This is a mistake in the report'). Use 間違える when referring to the action of making an error (e.g., 'I made a mistake in the calculation').
Word Origin
From the verb 間違う (machigau, 'to be wrong') + nominalizing suffix -い (-i). The verb itself derives from 間 (ma, 'interval/space') + 違う (chigau, 'to differ'), implying a deviation from correctness.
Usage Notes
間違い is a general term for mistakes and is widely used in both formal and informal contexts. It does not carry the same weight as 過ち (ayamachi), which implies a moral or serious error.
Word Breakdown
間違
error/difference
rootい
nominalizing suffix
suffix和英辞典