What is the difference between "計る" and "諮る"?

"計る" means "to measure (time, distance, estimation, plan)" (N3), whereas "諮る" represents "to consult, to discuss, to confer (with)" (N2).

Kanji Homophone Battle

Pronunciation Trap: "はかる (hakaru)"

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

Kanji Option A

はかる (hakaru)

N3 / CEFR

Kanji Option B

はかる (hakaru)

N2 / CEFR

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

計る (Level: N3): Translates to "to measure (time, distance, estimation, plan)" and is used when 時間、距離、速度などを「測る」ときに使われます。また、計画や予測を立てる際にも使われることがあります。/ Used when 'measuring' time, distance, speed, etc. Also used for making plans or estimations..
諮る (Level: N2): Maps to "to consult, to discuss, to confer (with)" and carries the nuance of Usually used in more formal contexts, especially when consulting with someone of higher authority or seeking expert advice on a serious matter. Often with the particle 「に」.

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

Bilingual Context for "計る"

ストップウォッチで走るタイムを計った。

I measured my running time with a stopwatch.

Bilingual Context for "諮る"

重要な決定を下す前に、専門家に諮る必要がある。

Before making an important decision, it is necessary to consult with an expert.

Which Kanji perfectly fits this blank space?

Which Kanji perfectly fits the blank: "ストップウォッチで走るタイムを計った。" (Meaning: "I measured my running time with a stopwatch.")

🎉 Correct Answer!

Correct! "計る" is used for "to measure (time, distance, estimation, plan)" in the context: "I measured my running time with a stopwatch.".