Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Build" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "build", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
建築する
けんちくする (kenchiku suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
築き上げる
きずきあげる (kizukiageru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "build" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 建築する and 築き上げる.
In Japanese, 建築する (けんちくする (kenchiku suru)) is typically associated with "to build, to construct" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used for constructing buildings, houses, or large structures, implying professional or large-scale work. 「建てる.
On the other hand, 築き上げる (きずきあげる (kizukiageru)) maps to "to build up, to establish, to construct (often abstract concepts)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 主に、人間関係や社会的な地位、組織など、形のないものを『努力して作り上げる』というニュアンスで使われます。物理的な建物を建てる場合にも使えますが、文脈で判断が必要です。. A literal translation of "build" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "建築する"
この会社は高層ビルを建築する専門です。
This company specializes in constructing high-rise buildings.
Bilingual Context for "築き上げる"
彼は長年の努力で、この会社の信頼を築き上げた。
Through many years of effort, he built up the trust of this company.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この会社は高層ビルを ＿＿＿ 専門です。" (Meaning: "This company specializes in constructing high-rise buildings.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "建築する" fits here because it means "to build, to construct" in the context of: "This company specializes in constructing high-rise buildings.". "築き上げる" represents "to build up, to establish, to construct (often abstract concepts)".