Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Ambition" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "ambition", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
野心
やしん (yashin)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
志
こころざし (kokorozashi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "ambition" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 野心 and 志.
In Japanese, 野心 (やしん (yashin)) is typically associated with "ambition; aspiration; sinister design; treasonous intent" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to big ambition, aspiration, or sometimes a slightly sinister/treasonous design to climb the ladder of success or take power. Often used as 野心的な.
On the other hand, 志 (こころざし (kokorozashi)) maps to "ambition, aspiration, resolution, intention" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A strong and earnest will or desire to achieve a particular goal or purpose, often involving dedication or contribution. More formal and deeper than simply 'purpose'. A literal translation of "ambition" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "野心"
彼は若くして政界のトップに登りつめようとする、並々ならぬ_______を秘めていました。
At a young age, he hid an extraordinary ambition to climb to the top of the political world.
Bilingual Context for "志"
彼は医者になるという高い志を持っている。
He has a high ambition to become a doctor.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は若くして政界のトップに登りつめようとする、並々ならぬ_______を秘めていました。" (Meaning: "At a young age, he hid an extraordinary ambition to climb to the top of the political world.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "野心" fits here because it means "ambition; aspiration; sinister design; treasonous intent" in the context of: "At a young age, he hid an extraordinary ambition to climb to the top of the political world.". "志" represents "ambition, aspiration, resolution, intention".