Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Achievement" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "achievement", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
達成
たっせい (tassei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
手柄
てがら (tegara)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "achievement" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 達成 and 手柄.
In Japanese, 達成 (たっせい (tassei)) is typically associated with "achievement, accomplishment" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used for reaching goals or completing tasks..
On the other hand, 手柄 (てがら (tegara)) maps to "achievement, exploit, distinguished service" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 素晴らしい功績や業績、特に他人や組織に貢献した際の実績を指します。賞賛に値する行為。. A literal translation of "achievement" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "達成"
彼は長年の夢を達成した。
He achieved his long-cherished dream.
Bilingual Context for "手柄"
彼は今回のプロジェクトで大きな手柄を立てた。
He achieved a great accomplishment in this project.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は長年の夢を ＿＿＿ した。" (Meaning: "He achieved his long-cherished dream.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "達成" fits here because it means "achievement, accomplishment" in the context of: "He achieved his long-cherished dream.". "手柄" represents "achievement, exploit, distinguished service".