1.
at first glance, apparently
Describes how something appears on the surface, often implying that the reality underneath may differ. Used to set up a contrast between appearance and actual nature.
一見簡単そうに見える。
It looks simple at first glance.
一見静かだが、実は活気のある町だ。
It seems quiet at first glance, but it's actually a lively town.
この問題は一見難しそうだが、コツをつかめばすぐ解ける。
This problem looks difficult at first glance, but once you get the hang of it, you can solve it right away.
一見 is used to describe surface-level impressions, typically followed by a contrasting reality introduced by が, けれど, or 実は.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 一見〜そうに見える (looks ~ at first glance)
- 一見〜だが、実は… (appears ~, but actually…)
- 一見すると (at a glance, looking at it briefly)
- 一見の価値がある (worth seeing, worth a look)
USAGE NOTES:
- Often implies a gap between appearance and reality
- Can be used as a noun meaning "a brief look": 一見の価値あり (worth seeing)
- Not to be confused with 一件 (one matter/case), which is a homophone
Related Words
Homophone:
一件 (one matter)