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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

慣習

かんしゅう (kanshuu)
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 慣習 and 仕来り. In Japanese, 慣習 (かんしゅう (kanshuu)) is typically associated with "custom, tradition, long-standing practice" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Similar to 慣例 but often implies something deeper rooted in a specific society or group, often with historical or cultural significance. It's often unwritten and deeply ingrained, referring to social norms.. 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 "慣習"
その村には独特の結婚の慣習がある。
That village has unique marriage customs.
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: "その村には独特の結婚の ___ がある。" (Meaning: "That village has unique marriage customs.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "慣習" fits here because it means "custom, tradition, long-standing practice" in the context of: "That village has unique marriage customs.". "仕来り" represents "custom, tradition, established practice".

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