Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Cause" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "cause", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
引き起こす
ひきおこす (hikiokosu)
N2 / 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 引き起こす and 起因.
In Japanese, 引き起こす (ひきおこす (hikiokosu)) is typically associated with "to cause, to bring about, to trigger, to provoke" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used for causing negative events like accidents, problems, or conflicts. Similar to もたらす but more commonly for negative consequences. Can also mean to pull someone up from lying down. 例: 問題を引き起こす.
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 "引き起こす"
彼の不注意が大きな事故を引き起こした。
His carelessness caused a major 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: "彼の不注意が大きな事故を引き起こした。" (Meaning: "His carelessness caused a major accident.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "引き起こす" fits here because it means "to cause, to bring about, to trigger, to provoke" in the context of: "His carelessness caused a major accident.". "起因" represents "cause, origin".