Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Be" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "be", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
出来る
できる (dekiru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
繋がる
つながる (tsunagaru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "be" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 出来る and 繋がる.
In Japanese, 出来る (できる (dekiru)) is typically associated with "to be able to; can; to be made; to be completed" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents This versatile verb expresses ability.
On the other hand, 繋がる (つながる (tsunagaru)) maps to "to be connected, to be tied, to be linked (intransitive)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents 物と物が結びついている状態を表す「自動詞」です。電話が通じる、関係がある、などの意味でも使われます。/ An intransitive verb describing a state where objects are linked. Also used for phone connections or having a relationship.. A literal translation of "be" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "出来る"
私は日本語ができます。
I can speak Japanese.
Bilingual Context for "繋がる"
この道は駅に繋がっている。
This road leads to the station.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私は日本語ができます。" (Meaning: "I can speak Japanese.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "出来る" fits here because it means "to be able to; can; to be made; to be completed" in the context of: "I can speak Japanese.". "繋がる" represents "to be connected, to be tied, to be linked (intransitive)".