Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Ask" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "ask", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
質問する
しつもんする (shitsumon suru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
尋ねる
たずねる (tazuneru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "ask" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 質問する and 尋ねる.
In Japanese, 質問する (しつもんする (shitsumon suru)) is typically associated with "to ask a question" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Often used in formal settings or when asking a teacher/superior. Can be used for general inquiries too. It's a する-verb..
On the other hand, 尋ねる (たずねる (tazuneru)) maps to "to ask; to inquire" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents This word specifically means "to ask a question" or "to inquire about something," often implying seeking information. It is important to distinguish it from 「聞く. A literal translation of "ask" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "質問する"
分からないことがあれば、先生に質問してください。
If you have anything you don't understand, please ask the teacher.
Bilingual Context for "尋ねる"
道に迷ったので、交番で道を尋ねました。
I got lost, so I asked for directions at the police box.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "分からないことがあれば、先生に質問してください。" (Meaning: "If you have anything you don't understand, please ask the teacher.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "質問する" fits here because it means "to ask a question" in the context of: "If you have anything you don't understand, please ask the teacher.". "尋ねる" represents "to ask; to inquire".