Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Break" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "break", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
休憩
きゅうけい (kyuukei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
息抜き
いきぬき (ikinuki)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "break" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 休憩 and 息抜き.
In Japanese, 休憩 (きゅうけい (kyuukei)) is typically associated with "break, rest (noun); to take a break (する)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents A short pause from work, study, or other activity to rest. Often used with する.
On the other hand, 息抜き (いきぬき (ikinuki)) maps to "break; relaxation; a breather" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to taking a break from work or study to refresh oneself.. A literal translation of "break" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "休憩"
仕事の合間に休憩する。
I take a break between work.
Bilingual Context for "息抜き"
仕事の合間にコーヒーを飲んで息抜きをする。
I drink coffee and take a break during work.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "仕事の合間に ＿＿＿ する。" (Meaning: "I take a break between work.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "休憩" fits here because it means "break, rest (noun); to take a break (する)" in the context of: "I take a break between work.". "息抜き" represents "break; relaxation; a breather".