Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Be" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "be", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
役立つ
やくだつ (yakudatsu)
N3 / 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 役立つ and 案じる.
In Japanese, 役立つ (やくだつ (yakudatsu)) is typically associated with "to be useful, to be helpful" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents An intransitive verb. Used to describe something that serves a purpose or provides assistance. Often followed by に..
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 "役立つ"
このアプリは毎日の仕事にとても役立ちます。
This app is very useful for daily work.
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: "このアプリは毎日の仕事にとても役立ちます。" (Meaning: "This app is very useful for daily work.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "役立つ" fits here because it means "to be useful, to be helpful" in the context of: "This app is very useful for daily work.". "案じる" represents "to be anxious, to worry about, to be concerned about".