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
終局
しゅうきょく (shūkyoku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "conclusion" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 結論 and 終局.
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, 終局 (しゅうきょく (shūkyoku)) maps to "conclusion, end, final stage (often of a game, incident, or play)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the final stage or conclusion of a process, game, or event. Often used in specific contexts like a game of shogi or go, or a play. Less abstract than 終焉.. 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 "終局"
チェスの終局は読み切れないほど複雑だ。
The endgame of chess is so complex that it's impossible to predict.
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.". "終局" represents "conclusion, end, final stage (often of a game, incident, or play)".