Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Be" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "be", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
ある
ある (aru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
案じる
あんじる (anjiru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "be" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between ある and 案じる.
In Japanese, ある (ある (aru)) is typically associated with "to be, to exist (inanimate objects)" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents 動かないもの（物、植物など）の存在を表します。人間や動物には「いる」を使います。
Expresses the existence of inanimate objects.
On the other hand, 案じる (あんじる (anjiru)) maps to "to be anxious, to worry about, to be concerned about" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used for deeper, more significant worries, or when considering a plan carefully. 辞書形は「案じる」ですが、通常「〜を案じている」や「〜を案じること」のように使われます。. A literal translation of "be" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "ある"
机の上に本があります。
There is a book on the desk.
Bilingual Context for "案じる"
彼はいつも家族の健康を案じている。
He is always worried about his family's health.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "机の上に本があります。" (Meaning: "There is a book on the desk.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "ある" fits here because it means "to be, to exist (inanimate objects)" in the context of: "There is a book on the desk.". "案じる" represents "to be anxious, to worry about, to be concerned about".