Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Change" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "change", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
着替える
きがえる (kigaeru)
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 着替える and 改める.
In Japanese, 着替える (きがえる (kigaeru)) is typically associated with "to change clothes" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used when changing from one set of clothes to another. Often implies changing into different attire, e.g., for going out or going to bed..
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 "着替える"
外出する前に、服を着替えます。
I change my clothes before going out.
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: "外出する前に、服を着替えます。" (Meaning: "I change my clothes before going out.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "着替える" fits here because it means "to change clothes" in the context of: "I change my clothes before going out.". "改める" represents "to change, to reform, to revise, to correct".