Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Change" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "change", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
変わる
かわる (kawaru)
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 変わる and 改める.
In Japanese, 変わる (かわる (kawaru)) is typically associated with "to change, to be transformed, to be different (intransitive)" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents This is an intransitive verb, meaning 'to change, to be transformed, to become different' by itself, without a direct agent. It describes a state or situation changing naturally or due to external factors. Its transitive counterpart is 変える.
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 "変わる"
この町の様子は10年で大きく変わりました。
The appearance of this town has changed significantly in 10 years.
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: "この町の様子は10年で大きく変わりました。" (Meaning: "The appearance of this town has changed significantly in 10 years.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "変わる" fits here because it means "to change, to be transformed, to be different (intransitive)" in the context of: "The appearance of this town has changed significantly in 10 years.". "改める" represents "to change, to reform, to revise, to correct".