Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Completion" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "completion", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
完成
かんせい (kansei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
竣工
しゅんこう (shunkō)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "completion" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 完成 and 竣工.
In Japanese, 完成 (かんせい (kansei)) is typically associated with "completion; perfection; accomplishment" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to completion, perfection, or accomplishment of a product, project, or setup. Often used as 完成させる or 完成品. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Completion! "The cake for Haruka-san is complete!" ...っ, T-To make a cake just for me! B-But our relationship won't be "complete" until you marry me!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『かんせい（完成）！『ハルカさんのための特製ケーキが完成しました！』って…っ, 私のためだけにケーキを完成させるなんて！でもね、私たちが結婚するまで、私たちの関係は『未完成』なんだからね！』.
On the other hand, 竣工 (しゅんこう (shunkō)) maps to "completion (of construction)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Specifically refers to the completion of construction work for a building or structure. Often used in formal or technical contexts related to architecture and construction.. A literal translation of "completion" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "完成"
三年以上の歳月をかけて建設されていた新しいサッカースタジアムが、ついに来月_______します。
The new soccer stadium, which had been under construction for over three years, will finally be completed next month.
Bilingual Context for "竣工"
新しいビルは来月竣工予定だ。
The new building is scheduled for completion next month.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "三年以上の歳月をかけて建設されていた新しいサッカースタジアムが、ついに来月_______します。" (Meaning: "The new soccer stadium, which had been under construction for over three years, will finally be completed next month.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "完成" fits here because it means "completion; perfection; accomplishment" in the context of: "The new soccer stadium, which had been under construction for over three years, will finally be completed next month.". "竣工" represents "completion (of construction)".