Kanji Homophone Battle
Pronunciation Trap: "とっさ (tossa)"
Same sound, completely different Kanji! Choose the right conceptual writing.
Kanji Option A
とっさ
とっさ (tossa)
N2 / CEFR
VS
Kanji Option B
咄嗟
とっさ (tossa)
N2 / CEFR
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
In Japanese, many words share the exact same pronunciation "とっさ (tossa)" but are written with different Kanji, changing the meaning entirely.
- とっさ (Level: N2): Translates to "instantaneously, in an instant, on the spur of the moment" and is used when Describes an action or reaction performed immediately and without conscious thought in response to a sudden event. Often used with 「とっさの判断.
- 咄嗟 (Level: N2): Maps to "instant, split-second, at that very instant" and carries the nuance of Refers to an action or thought that occurs immediately and spontaneously in response to something, often an emergency or surprise. Usually used with 「に」.
Bilingual Context for "とっさ"
ボールが飛んできたので、とっさに手で受け止めた。
A ball came flying, so I caught it instantly with my hand.
Bilingual Context for "咄嗟"
彼は咄嗟に危険を察知し、子供をかばった。
He instantly sensed the danger and shielded the child.
Kanji Selection Quiz
Which Kanji perfectly fits this blank space?
Which Kanji perfectly fits the blank: "ボールが飛んできたので、 ＿＿＿ に手で受け止めた。" (Meaning: "A ball came flying, so I caught it instantly with my hand.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Correct! "とっさ" is used for "instantaneously, in an instant, on the spur of the moment" in the context: "A ball came flying, so I caught it instantly with my hand.".