Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Conclusion" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "conclusion", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
結論
けつろん (ketsuron)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
断定
だんてい (dantei)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "conclusion" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 結論 and 断定.
In Japanese, 結論 (けつろん (ketsuron)) is typically associated with "conclusion" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used when summarizing or arriving at a final decision or judgment after considering various points. Often followed by verbs like 出す.
On the other hand, 断定 (だんてい (dantei)) maps to "conclusion, decision, assertion, definite judgment" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents To make a definitive judgment or conclusion about something, often based on evidence or reasoning. 証拠や推論に基づいて、はっきりと判断を下すこと。. A literal translation of "conclusion" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "結論"
長い会議の末、私たちは新しいプロジェクトの結論を出しました。
After a long meeting, we drew a conclusion about the new project.
Bilingual Context for "断定"
証拠が不足しているため、犯人を断定することはできない。
Due to lack of evidence, we cannot definitively conclude who the culprit is.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "長い会議の末、私たちは新しいプロジェクトの ＿＿＿ を出しました。" (Meaning: "After a long meeting, we drew a conclusion about the new project.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "結論" fits here because it means "conclusion" in the context of: "After a long meeting, we drew a conclusion about the new project.". "断定" represents "conclusion, decision, assertion, definite judgment".