Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Continuation" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "continuation", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
継続
けいぞく (keizoku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
持続
じぞく (jizoku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "continuation" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 継続 and 持続.
In Japanese, 継続 (けいぞく (keizoku)) is typically associated with "continuation, persistence, succession" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used when something continues without interruption for a period, typically with a sense of duration or sustained effort. Can be used as a noun or a する verb.
On the other hand, 持続 (じぞく (jizoku)) maps to "continuation, persistence, sustainability" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to something continuing over a period of time without interruption or weakening. Often used in contexts like '持続可能な開発. A literal translation of "continuation" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "継続"
このプロジェクトは来年も継続されます。
This project will continue next year.
Bilingual Context for "持続"
この薬の効果は8時間持続します。
The effect of this medicine lasts for 8 hours.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "このプロジェクトは来年も ＿＿＿ されます。" (Meaning: "This project will continue next year.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "継続" fits here because it means "continuation, persistence, succession" in the context of: "This project will continue next year.". "持続" represents "continuation, persistence, sustainability".