Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Deep" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "deep", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
感動
かんどう (kandou)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
猛省
もうせい (mōsei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "deep" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 感動 and 猛省.
In Japanese, 感動 (かんどう (kandou)) is typically associated with "deep emotion, impression, being moved" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Often used with する.
On the other hand, 猛省 (もうせい (mōsei)) maps to "deep reflection; serious self-criticism; extreme regret and introspection" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to deep reflection, serious self-criticism, or extreme regret and introspection to correct one's serious mistakes. A literal translation of "deep" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "感動"
彼のスピーチにとても感動しました。
I was deeply moved by his speech.
Bilingual Context for "猛省"
自分の油断から重大なデータ流出を招いた担当者は、自らの不注意を_______し、再発防止策の立案に当たりました。
The person in charge who caused a serious data leak due to their own negligence deeply reflected on their own carelessness and worked on drafting preventive measures.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼のスピーチにとても ＿＿＿ しました。" (Meaning: "I was deeply moved by his speech.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "感動" fits here because it means "deep emotion, impression, being moved" in the context of: "I was deeply moved by his speech.". "猛省" represents "deep reflection; serious self-criticism; extreme regret and introspection".