Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Decide" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "decide", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
決心する
けっしんする (kesshinsuru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
定める
さだめる (sadameru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "decide" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 決心する and 定める.
In Japanese, 決心する (けっしんする (kesshinsuru)) is typically associated with "to decide, to make up one's mind, to resolve" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Implies a firm, strong decision or resolution, often made after careful thought or overcoming hesitation. It is a する-verb..
On the other hand, 定める (さだめる (sadameru)) maps to "to decide, to establish, to set, to determine" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often implies making a formal decision, setting rules, or determining a course of action. More formal or definitive than 決める. A literal translation of "decide" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "決心する"
彼は留学する決心をした。
He decided to study abroad.
Bilingual Context for "定める"
会社は新しい目標を定めた。
The company established new goals.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は留学する決心をした。" (Meaning: "He decided to study abroad.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "決心する" fits here because it means "to decide, to make up one's mind, to resolve" in the context of: "He decided to study abroad.". "定める" represents "to decide, to establish, to set, to determine".