Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Consideration" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "consideration", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
顧慮
こりょ (koryo)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
斟酌
しんしゃく (shinshaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "consideration" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 顧慮 and 斟酌.
In Japanese, 顧慮 (こりょ (koryo)) is typically associated with "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..
On the other hand, 斟酌 (しんしゃく (shinshaku)) maps to "consideration, allowance, discretion, taking circumstances into account" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents To take someone's feelings, circumstances, or situation into consideration when making a decision or judgment. Often used in polite or formal contexts.. A literal translation of "consideration" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "斟酌"
彼の病状を斟酌して、試験を免除することにした。
Taking his medical condition into consideration, we decided to exempt him from the exam.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "相手の立場を ＿＿＿ して発言するべきだ。" (Meaning: "You should speak considering the other person's position.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "顧慮" fits here because it means "consideration, regard, concern (for others)" in the context of: "You should speak considering the other person's position.". "斟酌" represents "consideration, allowance, discretion, taking circumstances into account".