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
設計する
せっけいする (sekkeisuru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "design" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 設計 and 設計する.
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, 設計する (せっけいする (sekkeisuru)) maps to "to design; to plan" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used when creating the blueprint, plan, or structure for buildings, products, software, or systems, before actual construction or development begins. Often implies technical or architectural planning.. 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 "設計する"
この橋は有名な技術者が設計しました。
This bridge was designed by a famous engineer.
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.". "設計する" represents "to design; to plan".