Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Decision" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "decision", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
決定
けってい (kettei)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
決断
けつだん (ketsudan)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "decision" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 決定 and 決断.
In Japanese, 決定 (けってい (kettei)) is typically associated with "decision, determination, resolution" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents The act of making a final choice or judgment. Can be a noun or verb.
On the other hand, 決断 (けつだん (ketsudan)) maps to "decision, determination, resolution (to do something)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to a personal, firm decision or resolution, often implying courage or difficulty in making it. It's about an individual's will.. A literal translation of "decision" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "決定"
大切な決定を下す前に、よく考えてください。
Please think carefully before making an important decision.
Bilingual Context for "決断"
彼は家族のために会社を辞める決断をした。
He made the decision to quit his job for his family.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "大切な ＿＿＿ を下す前に、よく考えてください。" (Meaning: "Please think carefully before making an important decision.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "決定" fits here because it means "decision, determination, resolution" in the context of: "Please think carefully before making an important decision.". "決断" represents "decision, determination, resolution (to do something)".