What is the difference between "微笑む" and "ほほえむ"?

"微笑む" means "to smile" (N3), whereas "ほほえむ" represents "to smile" (N3).

Kanji Homophone Battle

Pronunciation Trap: "ほほえむ (hohoemu)"

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

Kanji Option A

ほほえむ (hohoemu)

N3 / CEFR

Kanji Option B

ほほえむ (hohoemu)

N3 / CEFR

In Japanese, many words share the exact same pronunciation "ほほえむ (hohoemu)" but are written with different Kanji, changing the meaning entirely.

微笑む (Level: N3): Translates to "to smile" and is used when Implies a gentle, slight, or internal smile, rather than a big laugh. Can be used for people, but also metaphorically for nature.
ほほえむ (Level: N3): Maps to "to smile" and carries the nuance of Intransitive verb. Means to smile gently, often implying a soft, subtle smile rather than a wide grin.

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

Bilingual Context for "微笑む"

彼女はいつも優しく微笑んでいる。

She is always smiling gently.

Bilingual Context for "ほほえむ"

彼女は優しくほほえんだ。

She smiled gently.

Which Kanji perfectly fits this blank space?

Which Kanji perfectly fits the blank: "彼女はいつも優しく微笑んでいる。" (Meaning: "She is always smiling gently.")

🎉 Correct Answer!

Correct! "微笑む" is used for "to smile" in the context: "She is always smiling gently.".