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ピンとこない

Grammar & Usage

Expression / Phrasal verb

Casual / Conversational

How it works

Negative form of the compound verb 'ピンとくる'. It consists of the onomatopoeic adverb 'ピンと' (mimicking a sudden spark/click) followed by the verb 'くる' (to come) in its plain negative form 'こない'.

Sample sentences

彼の説明は難しくて、正直あまりピンとこない。

His explanation is difficult, and to be honest, it doesn't really click with me.

いい提案だとは思うが、何かがピンとこない。

I think it's a good proposal, but something about it just doesn't feel right.

Quick facts

nuance:Indicates a lack of intuitive understanding, immediate connection, or feeling that something is 'right' or 'clicking'.

JLPTLevel:N2-N1

pitchAccent:Heiban ([0])

kanjiReadings:Normally written in hiragana/katakana (ピンと来ない)

Often used with

Mnemonic

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Example

彼の説明は難しくて、正直あまりピンとこない。

His explanation is difficult, and to be honest, it doesn't really click with me.

いい提案だとは思うが、何かがピンとこない。

I think it's a good proposal, but something about it just doesn't feel right.