Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Accompaniment" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "accompaniment", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
随伴
ずいはん (zuihan)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
伴奏
ばんそう (bansō)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "accompaniment" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 随伴 and 伴奏.
In Japanese, 随伴 (ずいはん (zuihan)) is typically associated with "accompaniment, attendance, associated with, concomitant" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to something accompanying or naturally coming with something else. Often used for phenomena, symptoms, or characteristics..
On the other hand, 伴奏 (ばんそう (bansō)) maps to "accompaniment (musical)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the musical part that supports or goes along with a main melody or soloist, typically performed by another instrument or voice.. A literal translation of "accompaniment" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "随伴"
この病気には、めまいが随伴することが多い。
This illness is often accompanied by dizziness.
Bilingual Context for "伴奏"
ピアノの伴奏で彼女は美しい歌を歌った。
She sang a beautiful song with piano accompaniment.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この病気には、めまいが ＿＿＿ することが多い。" (Meaning: "This illness is often accompanied by dizziness.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "随伴" fits here because it means "accompaniment, attendance, associated with, concomitant" in the context of: "This illness is often accompanied by dizziness.". "伴奏" represents "accompaniment (musical)".