Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Design" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "design", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
設計する
せっけいする (sekkeisuru)
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 設計する and 意匠.
In Japanese, 設計する (せっけいする (sekkeisuru)) is typically associated with "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..
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.
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: "この橋は有名な技術者が設計しました。" (Meaning: "This bridge was designed by a famous engineer.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "設計する" fits here because it means "to design; to plan" in the context of: "This bridge was designed by a famous engineer.". "意匠" represents "design, device, contrivance".