Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Be" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "be", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
共通する
きょうつうする (kyōtsūsuru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
基づく
もとづく (motozuku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "be" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 共通する and 基づく.
In Japanese, 共通する (きょうつうする (kyōtsūsuru)) is typically associated with "to be common; to share (something)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used when two or more people or things possess or share the same characteristic, interest, or quality. Can be used as a verb.
On the other hand, 基づく (もとづく (motozuku)) maps to "to be based on, to be founded on" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents ある事実や規則、理念などを「根拠とする」ことを意味します。通常、「～に基づいて」の形で使われます。/ Means to 'be based on' facts, rules, or principles. Usually used in the form "～に基づいて. A literal translation of "be" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "共通する"
私たちには共通の趣味がある。
We have a common hobby.
Bilingual Context for "基づく"
この計画は、最新のデータに基づいて作成されました。
This plan was created based on the latest data.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私たちには共通の趣味がある。" (Meaning: "We have a common hobby.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "共通する" fits here because it means "to be common; to share (something)" in the context of: "We have a common hobby.". "基づく" represents "to be based on, to be founded on".