Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Acceptance" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "acceptance", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
承諾
しょうだく (shoudaku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
受容
じゅよう (juyou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "acceptance" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 承諾 and 受容.
In Japanese, 承諾 (しょうだく (shoudaku)) is typically associated with "acceptance; consent; agreement; approval" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents A formal term, often used in business or official contexts. It means to accept a request, proposal, or condition, implying granting permission or agreeing to something. It can be used as a noun.
On the other hand, 受容 (じゅよう (juyou)) maps to "acceptance, reception" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to accepting something, especially an unpleasant truth, a new idea, or someone's situation, often on an emotional or intellectual level. More formal than 受け入れる. A literal translation of "acceptance" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "承諾"
弊社からの提案をご承諾いただき、ありがとうございます。
Thank you for accepting our company's proposal.
Bilingual Context for "受容"
現実を受容することが、前に進む第一歩だ。
Accepting reality is the first step to moving forward.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "弊社からの提案をご ＿＿＿ いただき、ありがとうございます。" (Meaning: "Thank you for accepting our company's proposal.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "承諾" fits here because it means "acceptance; consent; agreement; approval" in the context of: "Thank you for accepting our company's proposal.". "受容" represents "acceptance, reception".