Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Custom" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "custom", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
習慣
しゅうかん (shūkan)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
慣例
かんれい (kanrei)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "custom" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 習慣 and 慣例.
In Japanese, 習慣 (しゅうかん (shūkan)) is typically associated with "custom, habit" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A regular practice or routine. Can refer to personal habits or societal customs..
On the other hand, 慣例 (かんれい (kanrei)) maps to "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'.. A literal translation of "custom" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "習慣"
早起きは良い習慣です。
Waking up early is a good habit.
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.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "早起きは良い ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "Waking up early is a good habit.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "習慣" fits here because it means "custom, habit" in the context of: "Waking up early is a good habit.". "慣例" represents "custom, precedent, established practice".