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Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "Carrying" in Japanese

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

Japanese Option A

携行

けいこう (keikou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

敢行

かんこう (kankou)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "carrying" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 携行 and 敢行. In Japanese, 携行 (けいこう (keikou)) is typically associated with "carrying, taking along (for a specific purpose)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used in formal or official contexts, referring to items that are carried with one for readiness or specific use. On the other hand, 敢行 (かんこう (kankou)) maps to "carrying out (a plan/action), taking decisive action, executing boldly" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Often used for difficult, risky, or controversial actions that require courage or strong determination.. A literal translation of "carrying" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "携行"
災害時に備えて、懐中電灯を携行する。
Prepare for disaster by carrying a flashlight.
Bilingual Context for "敢行"
困難な状況にもかかわらず、計画を敢行した。
Despite the difficult situation, they boldly carried out the plan.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "災害時に備えて、懐中電灯を ___ する。" (Meaning: "Prepare for disaster by carrying a flashlight.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "携行" fits here because it means "carrying, taking along (for a specific purpose)" in the context of: "Prepare for disaster by carrying a flashlight.". "敢行" represents "carrying out (a plan/action), taking decisive action, executing boldly".