Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Custom" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "custom", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
慣例
かんれい (kanrei)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
仕来り
しきたり (shikitari)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "custom" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 慣例 and 仕来り.
In Japanese, 慣例 (かんれい (kanrei)) is typically associated with "custom, precedent, established practice" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to a practice that has become established over time, often informally, and is generally followed, but not necessarily a strict written rule. It's about 'what is usually done'..
On the other hand, 仕来り (しきたり (shikitari)) maps to "custom, tradition, established practice" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to practices and rules that have been passed down through generations within a community, family, or organization. Often implies a sense of obligation or long-standing norm that is expected to be followed.. A literal translation of "custom" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "慣例"
歓迎会を開くのがこの会社の慣例だ。
It's customary for this company to hold a welcome party.
Bilingual Context for "仕来り"
この地域には古い仕来りがたくさん残っている。
Many old customs remain in this region.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "歓迎会を開くのがこの会社の ＿＿＿ だ。" (Meaning: "It's customary for this company to hold a welcome party.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "慣例" fits here because it means "custom, precedent, established practice" in the context of: "It's customary for this company to hold a welcome party.". "仕来り" represents "custom, tradition, established practice".