Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Demand" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "demand", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
需要
じゅよう (juyou)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
要求する
ようきゅうする (youkyū suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "demand" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 需要 and 要求する.
In Japanese, 需要 (じゅよう (juyou)) is typically associated with "demand" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents The desire or need for goods or services, often contrasted with '供給'.
On the other hand, 要求する (ようきゅうする (youkyū suru)) maps to "to demand, to request, to require" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents This verb implies making a strong request or a demand, often with an expectation that it will be met. It can be used in various contexts, from official requirements to personal demands. It's more formal and forceful than simply お願いする. A literal translation of "demand" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "需要"
新製品に対する需要が高まっている。
Demand for the new product is increasing.
Bilingual Context for "要求する"
会社は社員に残業を要求した。
The company demanded overtime from its employees.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "新製品に対する ＿＿＿ が高まっている。" (Meaning: "Demand for the new product is increasing.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "需要" fits here because it means "demand" in the context of: "Demand for the new product is increasing.". "要求する" represents "to demand, to request, to require".