Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Agony" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "agony", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
苦悩
くのう (kunō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
苦渋
くじゅう (kujuu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "agony" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 苦悩 and 苦渋.
In Japanese, 苦悩 (くのう (kunō)) is typically associated with "agony; anguish; suffering; mental distress" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to deep agony, anguish, suffering, or mental distress due to difficult circumstances, ethical dilemmas, or pain. Often used as 苦悩に満ちた.
On the other hand, 苦渋 (くじゅう (kujuu)) maps to "agony, bitter distress, anguish" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Expresses deep mental suffering or anguish, often stemming from having to make a difficult or painful decision. Frequently used with 「の選択」. A literal translation of "agony" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "苦悩"
紛争地域の難民たちが直面している飢餓と_______の現実に、世界中の人々が支援の声をあげました。
At the reality of starvation and suffering faced by the refugees in the conflict area, people around the world raised voices of support.
Bilingual Context for "苦渋"
彼は苦渋の表情で、その決断を下した。
He made that decision with an expression of bitter distress.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "紛争地域の難民たちが直面している飢餓と_______の現実に、世界中の人々が支援の声をあげました。" (Meaning: "At the reality of starvation and suffering faced by the refugees in the conflict area, people around the world raised voices of support.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "苦悩" fits here because it means "agony; anguish; suffering; mental distress" in the context of: "At the reality of starvation and suffering faced by the refugees in the conflict area, people around the world raised voices of support.". "苦渋" represents "agony, bitter distress, anguish".