Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Continue" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "continue", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
続く
つづく (tsuzuku)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
続ける
つづける (tsuzukeru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "continue" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 続く and 続ける.
In Japanese, 続く (つづく (tsuzuku)) is typically associated with "to continue (intransitive)" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Intransitive verb. Used for something continuing on its own or a state/process lasting. The transitive equivalent is 続ける.
On the other hand, 続ける (つづける (tsuzukeru)) maps to "to continue (something)" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Transitive verb. To keep doing something, or to prolong an action.. A literal translation of "continue" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "続く"
雨は一日中続きました。
The rain continued all day.
Bilingual Context for "続ける"
日本語の勉強を続けます。
I will continue studying Japanese.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "雨は一日中続きました。" (Meaning: "The rain continued all day.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "続く" fits here because it means "to continue (intransitive)" in the context of: "The rain continued all day.". "続ける" represents "to continue (something)".