Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Calm" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "calm", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
平気
へいき (heiki)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
和む
なごむ (nagomu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "calm" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 平気 and 和む.
In Japanese, 平気 (へいき (heiki)) is typically associated with "calm, unconcerned, all right, fine" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Describes a state of being undisturbed, not bothered, or unaffected by something that might normally cause concern or discomfort. Often implies resilience or lack of fear..
On the other hand, 和む (なごむ (nagomu)) maps to "to calm down, to soften, to feel at ease" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used when tension, anger, or an atmosphere becomes gentle, relaxed, or peaceful. 気持ちや場の雰囲気が柔らかく、穏やかになる様子を表します。. A literal translation of "calm" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "平気"
少しくらいの残業は、私にとっては平気だ。
A little overtime is fine for me.
Bilingual Context for "和む"
彼は優しい声で話し、場の雰囲気を和ませた。
He spoke in a gentle voice and eased the atmosphere.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "少しくらいの残業は、私にとっては ＿＿＿ だ。" (Meaning: "A little overtime is fine for me.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "平気" fits here because it means "calm, unconcerned, all right, fine" in the context of: "A little overtime is fine for me.". "和む" represents "to calm down, to soften, to feel at ease".