Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Attachment" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "attachment", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
愛着
あいちゃく (aichaku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
添付
てんぷ (tempu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "attachment" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 愛着 and 添付.
In Japanese, 愛着 (あいちゃく (aichaku)) is typically associated with "attachment; affection; love for things/places" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a deep attachment, affection, or emotional bond toward objects, places, pets, or work. Often used with 抱く.
On the other hand, 添付 (てんぷ (tempu)) maps to "attachment (e.g., to an email), enclosure" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Commonly used when referring to attaching files to emails or documents, or enclosing something with a letter.. A literal translation of "attachment" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "愛着"
長年使い古した万年筆には、言葉では表せないほどの_______があります。
The fountain pen used for many years has a deep attachment that cannot be put into words.
Bilingual Context for "添付"
履歴書をメールに添付して送ってください。
Please attach your resume to the email and send it.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "長年使い古した万年筆には、言葉では表せないほどの_______があります。" (Meaning: "The fountain pen used for many years has a deep attachment that cannot be put into words.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "愛着" fits here because it means "attachment; affection; love for things/places" in the context of: "The fountain pen used for many years has a deep attachment that cannot be put into words.". "添付" represents "attachment (e.g., to an email), enclosure".