Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Be" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "be", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
感動する
かんどうする (kandōsuru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
整う
ととのう (totonou)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "be" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 感動する and 整う.
In Japanese, 感動する (かんどうする (kandōsuru)) is typically associated with "to be moved, to be impressed, to be touched" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Expresses being deeply moved emotionally by something beautiful, powerful, or touching. Often takes 「に.
On the other hand, 整う (ととのう (totonou)) maps to "to be prepared, to be in order, to be arranged (intransitive)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Intransitive verb. Used when things are properly arranged, organized, or prepared. Can also refer to conditions being met. The transitive form is 整える. A literal translation of "be" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "感動する"
その映画を見て、とても感動しました。
I was very moved by that movie.
Bilingual Context for "整う"
これで準備が整った。
Now the preparations are complete.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その映画を見て、とても感動しました。" (Meaning: "I was very moved by that movie.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "感動する" fits here because it means "to be moved, to be impressed, to be touched" in the context of: "I was very moved by that movie.". "整う" represents "to be prepared, to be in order, to be arranged (intransitive)".