Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Cause" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "cause", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
原因
げんいん (gen'in)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
起因
きいん (kiin)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "cause" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 原因 and 起因.
In Japanese, 原因 (げんいん (gen'in)) is typically associated with "cause, origin" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Refers to the reason or origin of something, often negative or problematic. Used with ~となる.
On the other hand, 起因 (きいん (kiin)) maps to "cause, origin" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the underlying cause or source of an event or phenomenon. Often used in a slightly formal or analytical context, especially for negative outcomes, usually with 〜に起因する. A literal translation of "cause" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "原因"
事故の原因を調べています。
I am investigating the cause of the accident.
Bilingual Context for "起因"
その問題は、古いシステムに起因している。
That problem is caused by the old system.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "事故の ＿＿＿ を調べています。" (Meaning: "I am investigating the cause of the accident.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "原因" fits here because it means "cause, origin" in the context of: "I am investigating the cause of the accident.". "起因" represents "cause, origin".