Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Custom" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "custom", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
慣行
かんこう (kankou)
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 慣行 and 風習.
In Japanese, 慣行 (かんこう (kankou)) is typically associated with "custom, practice, convention" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A long-established practice or custom, often formal or traditional. Similar to 習慣.
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 "慣行"
この地域では、古くからの慣行が今も残っている。
In this region, ancient customs still remain.
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: "この地域では、古くからの ＿＿＿ が今も残っている。" (Meaning: "In this region, ancient customs still remain.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "慣行" fits here because it means "custom, practice, convention" in the context of: "In this region, ancient customs still remain.". "風習" represents "custom, tradition".