Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Aim" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "aim", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
ねらい
ねらい (nerai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
目掛ける
めがける (megakeru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "aim" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between ねらい and 目掛ける.
In Japanese, ねらい (ねらい (nerai)) is typically associated with "aim, target, objective, purpose" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a specific goal, intention, or target one is trying to achieve or point towards. Often implies a motive behind an action..
On the other hand, 目掛ける (めがける (megakeru)) maps to "to aim at; to make for" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Implies moving towards a target or aiming at a specific point, often with a clear intention or focus. Often used in the form '〜を目掛けて'. A literal translation of "aim" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "ねらい"
彼の発言には何かねらいがあるようだ。
His statement seems to have some kind of aim/intention.
Bilingual Context for "目掛ける"
彼はゴールを目掛けてシュートを打った。
He shot at the goal.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の発言には何か ＿＿＿ があるようだ。" (Meaning: "His statement seems to have some kind of aim/intention.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "ねらい" fits here because it means "aim, target, objective, purpose" in the context of: "His statement seems to have some kind of aim/intention.". "目掛ける" represents "to aim at; to make for".