What is the difference between "意向" and "遺稿"?

"意向" means "intention, inclination, wishes" (N2), whereas "遺稿" represents "posthumous manuscript" (C2).

Kanji Homophone Battle

Pronunciation Trap: "いこう (ikou)"

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

Kanji Option A

いこう (ikou)

N2 / CEFR

Kanji Option B

いこう (ikou)

C2 / CEFR

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。.
遺稿 (Level: C2): Maps to "posthumous manuscript" and carries the nuance of Essential structural term in CEFR C2 vocabulary syllabus..

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 "遺稿"

私は遺稿に興味があります。

I am interested in posthumous manuscript.

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.".