Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Cause" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "cause", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
起因
きいん (kiin)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
因果
いんが (inga)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "cause" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 起因 and 因果.
In Japanese, 起因 (きいん (kiin)) is typically associated with "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.
On the other hand, 因果 (いんが (inga)) maps to "cause and effect; karma" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used in philosophical or metaphorical contexts, referring to the chain of events or karma.. A literal translation of "cause" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "因果"
善い行いをすれば善い因果が返ってくると言われる。
It is said that if you do good deeds, good karma (cause and effect) will return to you.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その問題は、古いシステムに ＿＿＿ している。" (Meaning: "That problem is caused by the old system.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "起因" fits here because it means "cause, origin" in the context of: "That problem is caused by the old system.". "因果" represents "cause and effect; karma".