What is the difference between "頷く" and "うなずく"?

"頷く" means "to nod (in agreement or understanding)" (N3), whereas "うなずく" represents "to nod" (N2).

Kanji Homophone Battle

Pronunciation Trap: "うなずく (unazuku)"

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

Kanji Option A

うなずく (unazuku)

N3 / CEFR

Kanji Option B

うなずく (unazuku)

N2 / CEFR

In Japanese, many words share the exact same pronunciation "うなずく (unazuku)" but are written with different Kanji, changing the meaning entirely.

頷く (Level: N3): Translates to "to nod (in agreement or understanding)" and is used when Expresses agreement, understanding, or acknowledgment by nodding one's head. It's an intransitive verb..
うなずく (Level: N2): Maps to "to nod" and carries the nuance of Often used to show agreement, understanding, or acknowledgment without speaking. It is an intransitive verb..

Mixing these up can easily result in unnatural writing. Look at the bilingual context cards below to master the conceptual boundaries!

Bilingual Context for "頷く"

彼女は私の話を聞いて、静かに頷いた。

She listened to my story and nodded quietly.

Bilingual Context for "うなずく"

彼は私の話を聞いて、静かにうなずいた。

He listened to my story and nodded quietly.

Which Kanji perfectly fits this blank space?

Which Kanji perfectly fits the blank: "彼女は私の話を聞いて、静かに頷いた。" (Meaning: "She listened to my story and nodded quietly.")

🎉 Correct Answer!

Correct! "頷く" is used for "to nod (in agreement or understanding)" in the context: "She listened to my story and nodded quietly.".