Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Consult" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "consult", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
相談する
そうだんする (soudan suru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
諮る
はかる (hakaru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "consult" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 相談する and 諮る.
In Japanese, 相談する (そうだんする (soudan suru)) is typically associated with "to consult, to discuss" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A する-verb. Used when seeking advice or discussing a problem with someone. Often used with particle 「に」 or 「と」..
On the other hand, 諮る (はかる (hakaru)) maps to "to consult, to discuss, to confer (with)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Usually used in more formal contexts, especially when consulting with someone of higher authority or seeking expert advice on a serious matter. Often with the particle 「に」. A literal translation of "consult" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "相談する"
何か困ったことがあれば、いつでも私に相談してください。
If you have any problems, please consult me anytime.
Bilingual Context for "諮る"
重要な決定を下す前に、専門家に諮る必要がある。
Before making an important decision, it is necessary to consult with an expert.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "何か困ったことがあれば、いつでも私に相談してください。" (Meaning: "If you have any problems, please consult me anytime.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "相談する" fits here because it means "to consult, to discuss" in the context of: "If you have any problems, please consult me anytime.". "諮る" represents "to consult, to discuss, to confer (with)".