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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

風習

ふうしゅう (fūshū)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "custom" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 慣例 and 風習. 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, 風習 (ふうしゅう (fūshū)) maps to "custom, tradition" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A customary practice or tradition passed down in a region or community, often related to culture or daily life.. 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 "風習"
この地方には、昔から伝わるユニークな風習がたくさんある。
There are many unique customs that have been passed down since ancient times 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.". "風習" represents "custom, tradition".