Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Break" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "break", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
故障する
こしょうする (koshō suru)
N4 / 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 故障する and 息抜き.
In Japanese, 故障する (こしょうする (koshō suru)) is typically associated with "to break down, to malfunction" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used for machines, devices, or vehicles when they stop working properly. It's a する-verb, often used intransitively..
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 "故障する"
私のパソコンが故障してしまいました。
My computer broke down.
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: "私のパソコンが故障してしまいました。" (Meaning: "My computer broke down.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "故障する" fits here because it means "to break down, to malfunction" in the context of: "My computer broke down.". "息抜き" represents "break; relaxation; a breather".