🦅 Project Eagle
Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "Breakdown" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "breakdown", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

内訳

うちわけ (uchiwake)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

決裂

けつれつ (ketsuretsu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "breakdown" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 内訳 and 決裂. In Japanese, 内訳 (うちわけ (uchiwake)) is typically associated with "breakdown, itemization, details" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used to show how a total amount or category is divided into its constituent parts or detailed items.. On the other hand, 決裂 (けつれつ (ketsuretsu)) maps to "breakdown, rupture, collapse (of negotiations, relations)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes the failure of negotiations, talks, or relationships, where agreement could not be reached or a breakup occurred. Often used in formal or news contexts.. A literal translation of "breakdown" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "内訳"
費用の内訳を教えてください。
Please tell me the breakdown of the expenses.
Bilingual Context for "決裂"
交渉は残念ながら決裂した。
Unfortunately, the negotiations broke down.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "費用の ___ を教えてください。" (Meaning: "Please tell me the breakdown of the expenses.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "内訳" fits here because it means "breakdown, itemization, details" in the context of: "Please tell me the breakdown of the expenses.". "決裂" represents "breakdown, rupture, collapse (of negotiations, relations)".