Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Decide" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "decide", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
きめる
きめる (kimeru)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
決める
きめる (kimeru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "decide" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between きめる and 決める.
In Japanese, きめる (きめる (kimeru)) is typically associated with "to decide" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Transitive verb meaning 'to decide' or 'to fix'. Often used for plans, rules, or choices. The intransitive form is 決まる.
On the other hand, 決める (きめる (kimeru)) maps to "to decide" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Transitive verb. Used for making a decision, setting a plan, or determining something. Can also mean to fix or settle.. A literal translation of "decide" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "きめる"
来週の旅行の予定を決めました。
I decided the schedule for next week's trip.
Bilingual Context for "決める"
来週の旅行の予定を決めました。
I decided on the travel plans for next week.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "来週の旅行の予定を決めました。" (Meaning: "I decided the schedule for next week's trip.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "きめる" fits here because it means "to decide" in the context of: "I decided the schedule for next week's trip.". "決める" represents "to decide".