Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Balance" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "balance", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
兼ね合い
かねあい (kaneai)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
権衡
けんこう (kenkou)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "balance" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 兼ね合い and 権衡.
In Japanese, 兼ね合い (かねあい (kaneai)) is typically associated with "balance, adjustment, compromise" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to finding the right balance or compromise between two or more conflicting or interdependent elements. Often used when discussing trade-offs. 複数の要素のバランスや妥協点。.
On the other hand, 権衡 (けんこう (kenkou)) maps to "balance; equilibrium" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Refers to a state of balance or a fair distribution, often in a metaphorical sense, such as a balance of power, interests, or influences between different entities or forces.. A literal translation of "balance" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "兼ね合い"
仕事とプライベートの兼ね合いが難しい。
Finding a balance between work and private life is difficult.
Bilingual Context for "権衡"
意見の異なる両者の間で権衡を保つのは難しい。
It is difficult to maintain a balance between two parties with differing opinions.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "仕事とプライベートの ＿＿＿ が難しい。" (Meaning: "Finding a balance between work and private life is difficult.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "兼ね合い" fits here because it means "balance, adjustment, compromise" in the context of: "Finding a balance between work and private life is difficult.". "権衡" represents "balance; equilibrium".