Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Be" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "be", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
聞こえる
きこえる (kikoeru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
出来る
できる (dekiru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "be" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 聞こえる and 出来る.
In Japanese, 聞こえる (きこえる (kikoeru)) is typically associated with "to be audible, to be heard" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Intransitive verb. Indicates that a sound reaches one's ears, often unintentionally..
On the other hand, 出来る (できる (dekiru)) maps to "to be able to; can; to be made; to be completed" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents This versatile verb expresses ability. A literal translation of "be" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "聞こえる"
外から音楽が聞こえます。
I can hear music from outside.
Bilingual Context for "出来る"
私は日本語ができます。
I can speak Japanese.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "外から音楽が聞こえます。" (Meaning: "I can hear music from outside.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "聞こえる" fits here because it means "to be audible, to be heard" in the context of: "I can hear music from outside.". "出来る" represents "to be able to; can; to be made; to be completed".