Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Be" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "be", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
驚く
おどろく (odoroku)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
共通する
きょうつうする (kyōtsūsuru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "be" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 驚く and 共通する.
In Japanese, 驚く (おどろく (odoroku)) is typically associated with "to be surprised; to be astonished" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Intransitive verb. Used when something unexpected happens, causing a feeling of surprise or shock..
On the other hand, 共通する (きょうつうする (kyōtsūsuru)) maps to "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. A literal translation of "be" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "驚く"
ニュースを聞いて、みんな驚いた。
Everyone was surprised to hear the news.
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.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "ニュースを聞いて、みんな驚いた。" (Meaning: "Everyone was surprised to hear the news.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "驚く" fits here because it means "to be surprised; to be astonished" in the context of: "Everyone was surprised to hear the news.". "共通する" represents "to be common; to share (something)".