What is the difference between "ぜひ" and "是非"?

"ぜひ" means "by all means, definitely, without fail" (N5), whereas "是非" represents "by all means, definitely, without fail" (N3).

Kanji Homophone Battle

Pronunciation Trap: "ぜひ (zehi)"

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

Kanji Option A

ぜひ (zehi)

N5 / CEFR

Kanji Option B

ぜひ (zehi)

N3 / CEFR

In Japanese, many words share the exact same pronunciation "ぜひ (zehi)" but are written with different Kanji, changing the meaning entirely.

ぜひ (Level: N5): Translates to "by all means, definitely, without fail" and is used when An adverb used to express strong desire, request, or recommendation. It often accompanies verbs expressing invitation or desire..
是非 (Level: N3): Maps to "by all means, definitely, without fail" and carries the nuance of Expresses a strong desire or request, often used with ください.

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

Bilingual Context for "ぜひ"

ぜひ日本に来てください。

Please come to Japan by all means.

Bilingual Context for "是非"

今度、ぜひ私の家にも遊びに来てください。

Please do come visit my house next time, by all means.

Which Kanji perfectly fits this blank space?

Which Kanji perfectly fits the blank: " ＿＿＿日本に来てください。" (Meaning: "Please come to Japan by all means.")

🎉 Correct Answer!

Correct! "ぜひ" is used for "by all means, definitely, without fail" in the context: "Please come to Japan by all means.".