Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Authority" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "authority", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
権威
けんい (ken'i)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
権限
けんげん (kengen)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "authority" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 権威 and 権限.
In Japanese, 権威 (けんい (ken'i)) is typically associated with "authority; influence; expert power; recognized specialist" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to authority, influence, or expert power, or a highly recognized specialist in a academic/professional field whose opinions carry heavy weight. Often used as 権威がある or 〜分野の権威. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Authority! Absolute power! I am the absolute authority of this department! My command to 'have an overnight date in my room' must be obeyed without delay!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『けんい（権威）よ！私はこの部署の絶対的な『権威』なんだからね！私の『今夜は私の部屋でお泊まりデートよ！』っていう最高権威に基づく命令には、無条件で従いなさい！』.
On the other hand, 権限 (けんげん (kengen)) maps to "authority, power, jurisdiction" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents The legitimate right or power to give orders, make decisions, or take action, usually within a specific scope.. A literal translation of "authority" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "権威"
彼はこのウイルス研究における世界的な_______であり、彼の論文は常に高い注目を集めています。
He is a global authority in this virus research, and his papers always attract high attention.
Bilingual Context for "権限"
その件は私の権限外なので、上司に相談してください。
That matter is beyond my authority, so please consult my supervisor.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼はこのウイルス研究における世界的な_______であり、彼の論文は常に高い注目を集めています。" (Meaning: "He is a global authority in this virus research, and his papers always attract high attention.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "権威" fits here because it means "authority; influence; expert power; recognized specialist" in the context of: "He is a global authority in this virus research, and his papers always attract high attention.". "権限" represents "authority, power, jurisdiction".