Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Change" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "change", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
変える
かえる (kaeru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
改める
あらためる (arameru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "change" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 変える and 改める.
In Japanese, 変える (かえる (kaeru)) is typically associated with "to change; to alter; to vary (transitive verb)" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Transitive verb. Used when you intentionally make something different. Often used with object marker を..
On the other hand, 改める (あらためる (arameru)) maps to "to change, to reform, to revise, to correct" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used for changing something for the better, correcting mistakes, or renewing plans/rules.. A literal translation of "change" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "変える"
予定を変える必要がある。
I need to change my plans.
Bilingual Context for "改める"
悪い習慣を改める。
To correct bad habits.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "予定を ＿＿＿ 必要がある。" (Meaning: "I need to change my plans.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "変える" fits here because it means "to change; to alter; to vary (transitive verb)" in the context of: "I need to change my plans.". "改める" represents "to change, to reform, to revise, to correct".