Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Construction" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "construction", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
建設
けんせつ (kensetsu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
構築
こうちく (kōchiku)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "construction" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 建設 and 構築.
In Japanese, 建設 (けんせつ (kensetsu)) is typically associated with "construction; building; establishment" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to constructing large buildings, infrastructure, or establishing a new era or relationship. Often used as 建設工事 or 建設的な意見. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Construction! "Haruka-san, let's construct our sweet sweet home together!" ...っ! T-To suggest building a family so boldly! B-But since you asked, I will oversee the construction with 100% love! dummy!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『けんせつ（建設）よ！『ハルカさん、二人で甘い甘い家庭を建設しましょう！』って…っ！そんな重大な建設をサラッと言い出すなんてバカ！でも…あんたがそこまで言うなら、一生かけて愛のマイホームを建設してあげるわよ！』.
On the other hand, 構築 (こうちく (kōchiku)) maps to "construction, building, establishing, structuring" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents More formal than 建設. A literal translation of "construction" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "建設"
都市開発計画に基づいて、駅前の一等地に巨大な高層複合ビルの_______が着々と進められています。
Based on the urban development plan, the construction of a huge high-rise complex building is steadily progressing at a prime location in front of the station.
Bilingual Context for "構築"
新しいビジネスモデルの構築を目指す。
We aim to build a new business model.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "都市開発計画に基づいて、駅前の一等地に巨大な高層複合ビルの_______が着々と進められています。" (Meaning: "Based on the urban development plan, the construction of a huge high-rise complex building is steadily progressing at a prime location in front of the station.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "建設" fits here because it means "construction; building; establishment" in the context of: "Based on the urban development plan, the construction of a huge high-rise complex building is steadily progressing at a prime location in front of the station.". "構築" represents "construction, building, establishing, structuring".