Translation guide
The English phrase "look after" means to take care of someone or something, ensuring their well-being or safety. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; the best choice depends on what is being cared for and the relationship.
To provide care, supervision, or assistance to a person who needs it.
The most common and versatile phrase for looking after someone, especially children, the elderly, or those needing help. Implies taking responsibility for their daily needs.
祖母の面倒を見ています。
I look after my grandmother.
彼女は子供の面倒を見るのが上手だ。
She is good at looking after children.
Similar to 面倒を見る, but often implies more hands-on care or nursing. Commonly used for pets, plants, or people needing physical assistance.
病気の友達の世話をした。
I looked after my sick friend.
旅行中、犬の世話を頼める？
Can you look after my dog while I'm traveling?
To look after someone temporarily, often a child, while the usual caregiver is away. Implies keeping them safe for a limited time.
妹の子供を午後預かっています。
I'm looking after my sister's child this afternoon.
Specifically refers to nursing or long-term care for the elderly or disabled. Used in formal or professional contexts.
彼は父親を介護している。
He is looking after his father (as a caregiver).
To maintain, manage, or keep something in good condition.
To manage or look after property, finances, or systems. Implies overseeing and keeping things in order.
彼がアパートの管理をしている。
He looks after the apartment building.
留守の間、家の管理をお願いします。
Please look after the house while I'm away.
To care for something through regular maintenance, like a garden, car, or instrument. Focuses on upkeep.
庭の手入れをするのが好きです。
I like looking after the garden.
To protect or guard something, often used for looking after someone's interests, reputation, or secrets.
To take care of one's own health, safety, or well-being.
Common phrase meaning 'take care of yourself' or 'look after your health'. Often used as a farewell.
体に気をつけてね。
Look after yourself.
To look after one's own affairs; to be independent. Literally 'do one's own things by oneself'.
もう大人だから、自分のことは自分でしなさい。
You're an adult now, so look after yourself.
Do not translate 'look after' word-for-word as 見る (miru) + 後 (ato). This makes no sense in Japanese. Use the phrases above depending on context.
Both mean 'to take care of', but 面倒を見る often implies a broader responsibility (like raising a child), while 世話をする can be more task-oriented (feeding, cleaning). They overlap significantly.
He looked after the family's honor.