Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Admiration" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "admiration", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
感心
かんしん (kanshin)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
驚嘆
きょうたん (kyoutan)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "admiration" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 感心 and 驚嘆.
In Japanese, 感心 (かんしん (kanshin)) is typically associated with "admiration, being impressed; to be impressed/admire" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used when you are impressed or admire someone's actions, efforts, skills, or attitude. It can be a noun.
On the other hand, 驚嘆 (きょうたん (kyoutan)) maps to "admiration, wonder, astonishment" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Expresses a strong feeling of wonder, admiration, or surprise, often at something magnificent, beautiful, or outstanding.. A literal translation of "admiration" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "感心"
彼女の努力にはいつも感心させられる。
I'm always impressed by her efforts.
Bilingual Context for "驚嘆"
彼の才能にはただ驚嘆するばかりだ。
I can only marvel at his talent.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼女の努力にはいつも ＿＿＿ させられる。" (Meaning: "I'm always impressed by her efforts.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "感心" fits here because it means "admiration, being impressed; to be impressed/admire" in the context of: "I'm always impressed by her efforts.". "驚嘆" represents "admiration, wonder, astonishment".