Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Device" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "device", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
仕掛け
しかけ (shikake)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
趣向
しゅこう (shukō)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "device" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 仕掛け and 趣向.
In Japanese, 仕掛け (しかけ (shikake)) is typically associated with "device; trick; mechanism; project/undertaking (in progress); trap" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 何かを動かすための仕組みや装置、または人をだますための策略を指す名詞です。また、「〜仕掛け」のように、まだ途中の状態を表すこともあります。.
On the other hand, 趣向 (しゅこう (shukō)) maps to "device, contrivance, idea, plan, taste, preference, design" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to an idea, device, or plan conceived for a particular purpose, often to add interest, novelty, or a specific aesthetic. Also refers to one's taste or preference in design or entertainment.. A literal translation of "device" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "仕掛け"
その箱には面白い仕掛けが隠されている。
There's an interesting mechanism hidden in that box.
Bilingual Context for "趣向"
彼女は料理の趣向が凝っている。
Her cooking has an elaborate design/taste.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その箱には面白い ＿＿＿ が隠されている。" (Meaning: "There's an interesting mechanism hidden in that box.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "仕掛け" fits here because it means "device; trick; mechanism; project/undertaking (in progress); trap" in the context of: "There's an interesting mechanism hidden in that box.". "趣向" represents "device, contrivance, idea, plan, taste, preference, design".