Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Approach" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "approach", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
近づく
ちかづく (chikazuku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
さしかかる
さしかかる (sashikakaru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "approach" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 近づく and さしかかる.
In Japanese, 近づく (ちかづく (chikazuku)) is typically associated with "to approach; to draw near; to get close (intransitive)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Intransitive verb. Describes moving physically closer to something or someone, or an event approaching..
On the other hand, さしかかる (さしかかる (sashikakaru)) maps to "to approach; to come near; to be on the verge of" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Indicates that one is approaching a certain place, time, or stage. A literal translation of "approach" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "近づく"
試験の日が近づいてきた。
The exam day is drawing near.
Bilingual Context for "さしかかる"
もうすぐ駅にさしかかる。
We're almost approaching the station.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "試験の日が近づいてきた。" (Meaning: "The exam day is drawing near.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "近づく" fits here because it means "to approach; to draw near; to get close (intransitive)" in the context of: "The exam day is drawing near.". "さしかかる" represents "to approach; to come near; to be on the verge of".