Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Accomplish" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "accomplish", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
遂げる
とげる (togeru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
成し遂げる
なしとげる (nashitogeru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "accomplish" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 遂げる and 成し遂げる.
In Japanese, 遂げる (とげる (togeru)) is typically associated with "to accomplish, to achieve, to carry out" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used for achieving a goal, completing a task, or fulfilling a dream/ambition. Has a sense of finality and successful completion..
On the other hand, 成し遂げる (なしとげる (nashitogeru)) maps to "to accomplish, to achieve, to complete (a difficult task/goal)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Emphasizes the completion of a challenging or significant task, goal, or mission, often after considerable effort or difficulty. It carries a sense of strong will and determination.. A literal translation of "accomplish" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "遂げる"
彼は長年の夢を遂げた。
He accomplished his long-cherished dream.
Bilingual Context for "成し遂げる"
彼は長年の夢だったプロジェクトを成し遂げた。
He accomplished the project that had been his dream for many years.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は長年の夢を遂げた。" (Meaning: "He accomplished his long-cherished dream.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "遂げる" fits here because it means "to accomplish, to achieve, to carry out" in the context of: "He accomplished his long-cherished dream.". "成し遂げる" represents "to accomplish, to achieve, to complete (a difficult task/goal)".