🦅 Project Eagle
Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "Be" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "be", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

びっくりする

びっくりする (bikkurisuru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

担当する

たんとうする (tantō suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "be" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between びっくりする and 担当する. In Japanese, びっくりする (びっくりする (bikkurisuru)) is typically associated with "to be surprised; to be startled" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Often used to express sudden surprise or shock. It's an intransitive verb.. On the other hand, 担当する (たんとうする (tantō suru)) maps to "to be in charge of; to take responsibility for; to be responsible for" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used in business or formal settings to indicate being responsible for a specific role, task, or department. It implies taking on a duty or charge.. A literal translation of "be" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "びっくりする"
急に大きな音がして、びっくりしました。
I was surprised by the sudden loud noise.
Bilingual Context for "担当する"
私はこのプロジェクトの管理を担当しています。
I am in charge of managing this project.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "急に大きな音がして、びっくりしました。" (Meaning: "I was surprised by the sudden loud noise.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "びっくりする" fits here because it means "to be surprised; to be startled" in the context of: "I was surprised by the sudden loud noise.". "担当する" represents "to be in charge of; to take responsibility for; to be responsible for".