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Kanji Homophone Battle

Pronunciation Trap: "いこう (ikou)"

Same sound, completely different Kanji! Choose the right conceptual writing.

Kanji Option A

意向

いこう (ikou)
N2 / CEFR
VS
Kanji Option B

移行

いこう (ikou)
N2 / CEFR

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

In Japanese, many words share the exact same pronunciation "いこう (ikou)" but are written with different Kanji, changing the meaning entirely.
  • 意向 (Level: N2): Translates to "intention, inclination, wishes" and is used when Often refers to one's wishes or thoughts that are about to be expressed or are indirectly expressed, especially in a formal context or when asking for someone's preference. 相手の考えや希望、意見などを尋ねる際によく用いられ、より丁寧なニュアンスがあります。具体的な「意図」よりも、一般的な「考え」や「方向性」を示すことが多いです。.
  • 移行 (Level: N2): Maps to "transition, shift (to a new system, phase)" and carries the nuance of Refers to the process of moving from one state, system, or phase to another. Often implies a planned or structured transition..
Mixing these up can easily result in unnatural writing. Look at the bilingual context cards below to master the conceptual boundaries!
Bilingual Context for "意向"
お客様の意向を伺ってから、最終決定をいたします。
We will make a final decision after confirming the customer's wishes.
Bilingual Context for "移行"
新しいシステムへの移行が順調に進んでいる。
The transition to the new system is progressing smoothly.

Kanji Selection Quiz

Which Kanji perfectly fits this blank space?

Which Kanji perfectly fits the blank: "お客様の ___ を伺ってから、最終決定をいたします。" (Meaning: "We will make a final decision after confirming the customer's wishes.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Correct! "意向" is used for "intention, inclination, wishes" in the context: "We will make a final decision after confirming the customer's wishes.".

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