Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "As" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "as", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
なるべく
なるべく (narubeku)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
ありのまま
ありのまま (arinomama)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "as" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between なるべく and ありのまま.
In Japanese, なるべく (なるべく (narubeku)) is typically associated with "as much as possible, as ~ as one can" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Adverb. Used to encourage or suggest doing something to the greatest extent possible or practical..
On the other hand, ありのまま (ありのまま (arinomama)) maps to "as it is; the truth; raw; natural" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to something in its original, unembellished, or truthful state. Can be used for facts, emotions, or appearance.. A literal translation of "as" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "なるべく"
なるべく早く来てください。
Please come as early as possible.
Bilingual Context for "ありのまま"
ありのままの気持ちを彼に伝えた。
I told him my true feelings (as they were).
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 早く来てください。" (Meaning: "Please come as early as possible.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "なるべく" fits here because it means "as much as possible, as ~ as one can" in the context of: "Please come as early as possible.". "ありのまま" represents "as it is; the truth; raw; natural".