Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Cowardice" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "cowardice", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
臆病
おくびょう (okubyō)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
怯懦
きょうだ (kyouda)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "cowardice" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 臆病 and 怯懦.
In Japanese, 臆病 (おくびょう (okubyō)) is typically associated with "cowardice, timidity, timid, cowardly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes a lack of courage or a tendency to be easily frightened. Can be used for people or actions..
On the other hand, 怯懦 (きょうだ (kyouda)) maps to "cowardice; timidity" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents A somewhat formal or literary term for being cowardly. It often describes a person's character, a specific action, or an attitude in the face of danger or difficulty.. A literal translation of "cowardice" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "臆病"
彼は少し臆病な性格ですが、本当は優しい人です。
He has a slightly timid personality, but he is actually a kind person.
Bilingual Context for "怯懦"
彼の怯懦な態度のせいで、チームは危機を乗り越えられなかった。
Due to his cowardly attitude, the team could not overcome the crisis.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は少し ＿＿＿ な性格ですが、本当は優しい人です。" (Meaning: "He has a slightly timid personality, but he is actually a kind person.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "臆病" fits here because it means "cowardice, timidity, timid, cowardly" in the context of: "He has a slightly timid personality, but he is actually a kind person.". "怯懦" represents "cowardice; timidity".