Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Aspiration" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "aspiration", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
志望
しぼう (shibō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
抱負
ほうふ (hōfu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "aspiration" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 志望 and 抱負.
In Japanese, 志望 (しぼう (shibō)) is typically associated with "aspiration; desire; choice (of school/career); preference" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to an aspiration, career choice, preference, or school/university option. Often used as 志望校.
On the other hand, 抱負 (ほうふ (hōfu)) maps to "aspiration, ambition, resolution, goal" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A personal resolution or an aspiration for the future, often stated publicly or at the beginning of a new period. A literal translation of "aspiration" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "志望"
自分の第一_______の大学に合格するために、彼は毎日深夜まで机に向かいました。
In order to pass the university of his first choice, he faced his desk until late night every day.
Bilingual Context for "抱負"
新年の抱負を語る会が開催された。
A meeting to talk about New Year's resolutions was held.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "自分の第一_______の大学に合格するために、彼は毎日深夜まで机に向かいました。" (Meaning: "In order to pass the university of his first choice, he faced his desk until late night every day.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "志望" fits here because it means "aspiration; desire; choice (of school/career); preference" in the context of: "In order to pass the university of his first choice, he faced his desk until late night every day.". "抱負" represents "aspiration, ambition, resolution, goal".