Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Decision" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "decision", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
決心
けっしん (kesshin)
N3 / 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 決心 and 決断.
In Japanese, 決心 (けっしん (kesshin)) is typically associated with "decision; determination; resolve; making up one's mind" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to making a firm decision, resolve, or determination to act. Often used as 決心する or 固い決心. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Decision! Resolve! "I've made up my mind to protect Haruka-san for life." ...っ, T-To make such a firm decision...っ! B-Baka! Don't make me cry! Protect me forever!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『けっしん（決心）！『一生ハルカさんを守り抜くと決心しました』って…っ、そんな固い決心、プロポーズじゃないの…っ！バカ！嬉しすぎて死んじゃうから、一生守りなさい！』.
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 "決心"
彼は長年勤めた安定した大企業を退職し、自分の夢だったカフェを開業することを固く_______しました。
He resigned from the stable large company he worked at for many years, and firmly made up his mind to open the cafe that was his dream.
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: "彼は長年勤めた安定した大企業を退職し、自分の夢だったカフェを開業することを固く_______しました。" (Meaning: "He resigned from the stable large company he worked at for many years, and firmly made up his mind to open the cafe that was his dream.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "決心" fits here because it means "decision; determination; resolve; making up one's mind" in the context of: "He resigned from the stable large company he worked at for many years, and firmly made up his mind to open the cafe that was his dream.". "決断" represents "decision, determination, resolution (to do something)".