Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Consequence" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "consequence", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
落とし前
おとしまえ (otoshimae)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
帰結
きけつ (kiketsu)
C1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "consequence" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 落とし前 and 帰結.
In Japanese, 落とし前 (おとしまえ (otoshimae)) is typically associated with "consequence; settling a score; making amends (often implying responsibility for a misdeed)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Informal and somewhat strong expression, often used in contexts of taking responsibility for a mistake or misdeed, or settling a dispute. 良くないことをした際に責任を取る、あるいは争いを解決するという意味で使われる、やや口語的で強い表現です。.
On the other hand, 帰結 (きけつ (kiketsu)) maps to "consequence, result" (Syllabus Level: C1) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C1 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "consequence" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "落とし前"
失敗の落とし前は自分でつけなければならない。
You must take responsibility for your failures.
Bilingual Context for "帰結"
私は帰結に興味があります。
I am interested in consequence, result.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "失敗の ＿＿＿ は自分でつけなければならない。" (Meaning: "You must take responsibility for your failures.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "落とし前" fits here because it means "consequence; settling a score; making amends (often implying responsibility for a misdeed)" in the context of: "You must take responsibility for your failures.". "帰結" represents "consequence, result".