1.
to stare at, to gaze steadily at
To look directly and fixedly at something without averting one's eyes. Implies a strong, unwavering gaze.
相手の目を見据えた。
I stared straight into the other person's eyes.
彼は覚悟を決めた目で現実を見据えていた。
He was gazing at reality with eyes full of resolve.
厳しい表情でこちらを見据える姿に、思わず背筋が伸びた。
Seeing them stare at me with a stern expression, I involuntarily straightened up.
2.
to keep in sight, to look ahead to
To keep a future goal, outcome, or situation firmly in mind when making decisions. A figurative extension meaning to plan with a clear view of the future.
将来を見据えて貯金する。
I save money with an eye to the future.
十年先を見据えた経営戦略が必要だ。
A management strategy that looks ten years ahead is necessary.
高齢化社会を見据えた政策を立てるべきだ。
We should formulate policies with the aging society in view.
USAGE:
Sense 1 (stare at) describes an intense, fixed gaze — stronger than simply 見る. Sense 2 (keep in sight) is the more common usage in modern Japanese, especially in business and policy contexts. The pattern ～を見据えて (with... in view) is a staple of formal writing.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 将来を見据える: to keep the future in sight
- 現実を見据える: to face reality squarely
- ～を見据えた計画: a plan with... in view
- 目を見据える: to stare into someone's eyes