Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Consideration" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "consideration", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
検討
けんとう (kentō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
顧慮
こりょ (koryo)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "consideration" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 検討 and 顧慮.
In Japanese, 検討 (けんとう (kentō)) is typically associated with "consideration; examination; investigation; scrutiny" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to careful consideration, examination, investigation, or scrutiny of details before making decisions. Often used as 慎重な検討 or 検討を重ねる. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Consideration! "I am seriously considering our marriage, Haruka-san!" ...っ, T-To say that with such serious eyes...っ! D-Don't just consider it, execute it immediately!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『けんとう(検討)よ!『ハルカさんとの結婚を真剣に検討しています』って…っ, 検討なんて生ぬるい言葉使ってんじゃないわよ!今すぐ婚姻届にサインしなさい!』.
On the other hand, 顧慮 (こりょ (koryo)) maps to "consideration, regard, concern (for others)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 他の人の事情や感情を考慮し、配慮すること。特に相手に不利益や不快感を与えないように気を配る場合に使う。To consider and show regard for other people's circumstances or feelings, especially when being careful not to cause disadvantage or discomfort.. A literal translation of "consideration" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "検討"
新規事業の立ち上げに伴い、予算の配分や人員の配置について、役員会で慎重な_______が重ねられました。
Along with the launch of the new business, careful consideration was repeated in the board meeting regarding budget allocation and personnel placement.
Bilingual Context for "顧慮"
相手の立場を顧慮して発言するべきだ。
You should speak considering the other person's position.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "新規事業の立ち上げに伴い、予算の配分や人員の配置について、役員会で慎重な_______が重ねられました。" (Meaning: "Along with the launch of the new business, careful consideration was repeated in the board meeting regarding budget allocation and personnel placement.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "検討" fits here because it means "consideration; examination; investigation; scrutiny" in the context of: "Along with the launch of the new business, careful consideration was repeated in the board meeting regarding budget allocation and personnel placement.". "顧慮" represents "consideration, regard, concern (for others)".