Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Design" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "design", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
設計
せっけい (sekkei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
意匠
いしょう (ishō)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "design" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 設計 and 意匠.
In Japanese, 設計 (せっけい (sekkei)) is typically associated with "design; plan; layout" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used for creating plans or blueprints, especially for buildings, machines, software, or systems before construction or manufacturing. Can be used as a noun.
On the other hand, 意匠 (いしょう (ishō)) maps to "design, device, contrivance" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Often used in the context of artistic, architectural, or product design, emphasizing originality and creativity.. A literal translation of "design" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "設計"
このビルの設計はとてもユニークだ。
The design of this building is very unique.
Bilingual Context for "意匠"
彼の建築物は独特の意匠が凝らされている。
His buildings feature elaborate and unique designs.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "このビルの ＿＿＿ はとてもユニークだ。" (Meaning: "The design of this building is very unique.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "設計" fits here because it means "design; plan; layout" in the context of: "The design of this building is very unique.". "意匠" represents "design, device, contrivance".