Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Cooking" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "cooking", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
調理
ちょうり (chōri)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
自炊
じすい (jisui)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "cooking" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 調理 and 自炊.
In Japanese, 調理 (ちょうり (chōri)) is typically associated with "cooking, preparation (of food)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents This word refers to the act or process of cooking food. It is often used as a suru-verb.
On the other hand, 自炊 (じすい (jisui)) maps to "cooking for oneself; self-catering" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to cooking one's own meals, often when living alone or on a trip to save money. Frequently used with する. A literal translation of "cooking" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "調理"
このレストランは様々な国の料理を調理します。
This restaurant cooks dishes from various countries.
Bilingual Context for "自炊"
一人暮らしなので、毎日自炊しています。
Since I live alone, I cook for myself every day.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "このレストランは様々な国の料理を ＿＿＿ します。" (Meaning: "This restaurant cooks dishes from various countries.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "調理" fits here because it means "cooking, preparation (of food)" in the context of: "This restaurant cooks dishes from various countries.". "自炊" represents "cooking for oneself; self-catering".