The 'Looks Can Be Deceiving' Trick: ああ見えて (Aa miete)

In communication, some short phrases pack a world of nuance, and「ああ見えて」is a prime example. This is the ultimate trick the Japanese use to flip the first impression of a person, creating a delightful surprise.

🤔 What is「ああ見えて」?

Simply put, it means "Contrary to how they look..." or "You wouldn't think it to look at them, but..."

• ああ (aa): Like that (referring to an appearance or impression that both the speaker and listener implicitly understand).
• 見えて (miete): Although it looks/appears...

It's used when you want to reveal a truth (a personality trait, talent, habit, etc.) that completely contrasts with the initial impression that person gives off.

🎬 Real-Life Scenarios

Imagine you're talking about your manager, Suzuki-buchou, who is always stern and serious.

🗣️ 「鈴木部長って、ああ見えて、実は大の甘党なんだって。机の引き出しにお菓子がいっぱいあるらしいよ。」 (You wouldn't think it to look at Manager Suzuki, but he's actually a huge sweet tooth. I heard his desk drawer is full of snacks.)

Or when talking about your colleague Satou-san, who seems very gentle and mild-mannered.

🗣️ 「佐藤さん、ああ見えて、週末は一人でバイクに乗ってツーリングするのが趣味なんだって。かっこいいよね！」 (Believe it or not, Satou-san's hobby is riding her motorcycle solo on weekends. So cool, right!)

It can also be used for slightly negative things:

🗣️ 「新人の山田くん、ああ見えて、意外と頑固で人の意見聞かないんだよね。」 (The rookie, Yamada-kun, despite his appearance, is surprisingly stubborn and doesn't listen to others' opinions.)

✨ The Nuance

Unlike just saying「意外に」(igai ni - surprisingly), using「ああ見えて」creates an implicit connection with the listener. It's like saying, "You and I both have the same first impression of that person, right? Well, let me tell you a secret..."

This is a fantastic spice that makes small talk and comments about others more lively, colorful, and very "Japanese." Next time you discover someone's surprising side, give it a try! 😉