Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Break" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "break", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
割る
わる (waru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
休憩
きゅうけい (kyuukei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "break" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 割る and 休憩.
In Japanese, 割る (わる (waru)) is typically associated with "to break, to divide (transitive)" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents To intentionally break something into pieces or to divide something. It requires a subject performing the action on an object..
On the other hand, 休憩 (きゅうけい (kyuukei)) maps to "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. A literal translation of "break" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "割る"
子どもがコップを割ってしまいました。
The child accidentally broke the glass.
Bilingual Context for "休憩"
仕事の合間に休憩する。
I take a break between work.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "子どもがコップを割ってしまいました。" (Meaning: "The child accidentally broke the glass.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "割る" fits here because it means "to break, to divide (transitive)" in the context of: "The child accidentally broke the glass.". "休憩" represents "break, rest (noun); to take a break (する)".