Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Blame" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "blame", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
責める
せめる (semeru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
咎める
とがめる (togameru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "blame" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 責める and 咎める.
In Japanese, 責める (せめる (semeru)) is typically associated with "to blame, to accuse, to criticize" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used when holding someone responsible for a mistake or failure, often implying a critical tone. Can be used for actions or words..
On the other hand, 咎める (とがめる (togameru)) maps to "to blame, to censure, to reprove, to find fault with" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents To criticize, reprimand, or feel guilty about something. Can be used for blaming others or one's own conscience. A literal translation of "blame" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "責める"
彼は自分の失敗を責めた。
He blamed himself for his failure.
Bilingual Context for "咎める"
彼女は彼の無責任な行動を咎めた。
She blamed him for his irresponsible behavior.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は自分の失敗を責めた。" (Meaning: "He blamed himself for his failure.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "責める" fits here because it means "to blame, to accuse, to criticize" in the context of: "He blamed himself for his failure.". "咎める" represents "to blame, to censure, to reprove, to find fault with".