Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Contract" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "contract", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
請負
うけおい (ukeoi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
成約
せいやく (seiyaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "contract" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 請負 and 成約.
In Japanese, 請負 (うけおい (ukeoi)) is typically associated with "contract, contracting, undertaking (a job)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to undertaking a job or project under a contract, where the contractor is responsible for completing the work for an agreed price. Often seen in construction or services..
On the other hand, 成約 (せいやく (seiyaku)) maps to "contract conclusion; successful negotiation; deal closure" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Specifically refers to the successful conclusion of a contract, deal, or agreement, especially in business or real estate transactions.. A literal translation of "contract" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "請負"
その工事は請負契約で進められている。
That construction project is proceeding under a contract.
Bilingual Context for "成約"
不動産の成約件数が過去最高を記録した。
The number of real estate deals concluded reached a record high.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その工事は ＿＿＿ 契約で進められている。" (Meaning: "That construction project is proceeding under a contract.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "請負" fits here because it means "contract, contracting, undertaking (a job)" in the context of: "That construction project is proceeding under a contract.". "成約" represents "contract conclusion; successful negotiation; deal closure".