What is the difference between "成功" and "精巧"?

"成功" means "success" (N3), whereas "精巧" represents "elaborate, exquisite, delicate, intricate, fine craftsmanship" (N1).

Kanji Homophone Battle

Pronunciation Trap: "せいこう (seikō)"

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

Kanji Option A

せいこう (seikō)

N3 / CEFR

Kanji Option B

せいこう (seikō)

N1 / CEFR

In Japanese, many words share the exact same pronunciation "せいこう (seikō)" but are written with different Kanji, changing the meaning entirely.

成功 (Level: N3): Translates to "success" and is used when Refers to achieving a goal or succeeding in a task. Can be used with する as a verb.
精巧 (Level: N1): Maps to "elaborate, exquisite, delicate, intricate, fine craftsmanship" and carries the nuance of Describes something made with great skill and attention to detail, often referring to crafts, machinery, or artistic works. 「精巧な細工」「精巧な時計」のように使われます。.

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

Bilingual Context for "成功"

多くの困難を乗り越えて、プロジェクトを成功させました。

Overcoming many difficulties, we made the project a success.

Bilingual Context for "精巧"

この時計は、日本の職人によって精巧に作られている。

This watch is elaborately crafted by a Japanese artisan.

Which Kanji perfectly fits this blank space?

Which Kanji perfectly fits the blank: "多くの困難を乗り越えて、プロジェクトを＿＿＿させました。" (Meaning: "Overcoming many difficulties, we made the project a success.")

🎉 Correct Answer!

Correct! "成功" is used for "success" in the context: "Overcoming many difficulties, we made the project a success.".