間を読む（まをよむ）
JLPT N1 · Godan verb (Group 1)
Meaning: to read the atmosphere
Conjugation
| Form | Japanese | Reading |
|---|---|---|
| masu-form (polite) | 間を読みます | まをよみます |
| te-form | 間を読んで | まをよんで |
| ta-form (past) | 間を読んだ | まをよんだ |
| nai-form (negative) | 間を読まない | まをよまない |
| potential form | 間を読める | まをよめる |
Example sentences
- 会話の間を読んで発言する。 — Speak up by reading the pauses in the conversation.
- 間を読むのがうまい司会だ。 — She's an MC who's skilled at reading the room's timing.
Related words
See it used in real works
- Example sentences from Japanese novels & web fiction (Massif)
- Hear “間を読む” pronounced in real videos (YouGlish)