Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Compensation" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "compensation", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
弁償
べんしょう (benshou)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
補償
ほしょう (hoshou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "compensation" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 弁償 and 補償.
In Japanese, 弁償 (べんしょう (benshou)) is typically associated with "compensation, indemnification, reparation" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents To compensate for damage, loss, or injury caused to someone. Often involves monetary payment..
On the other hand, 補償 (ほしょう (hoshou)) maps to "compensation, indemnity" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to payment or recompense for damage, loss, or injury, often under legal or contractual obligation.. A literal translation of "compensation" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "弁償"
壊してしまった物を弁償します。
I will compensate for the item I broke.
Bilingual Context for "補償"
事故による損害に対して、保険会社から補償金が支払われた。
Compensation was paid by the insurance company for the damages caused by the accident.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "壊してしまった物を ＿＿＿ します。" (Meaning: "I will compensate for the item I broke.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "弁償" fits here because it means "compensation, indemnification, reparation" in the context of: "I will compensate for the item I broke.". "補償" represents "compensation, indemnity".