Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Dig" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "dig", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
掘る
ほる (horu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
掘り起こす
ほりおこす (horiokosu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "dig" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 掘る and 掘り起こす.
In Japanese, 掘る (ほる (horu)) is typically associated with "to dig" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents 地面や穴を掘る、または地下から何かを見つけ出す際に使う。Used when digging a hole in the ground or unearthing something from underground..
On the other hand, 掘り起こす (ほりおこす (horiokosu)) maps to "to dig up, to unearth, to bring to light" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Can be used literally for digging something buried out of the ground, or figuratively for uncovering forgotten facts, memories, or problems.. A literal translation of "dig" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "掘る"
犬が庭で骨を掘っている。
The dog is digging for a bone in the garden.
Bilingual Context for "掘り起こす"
考古学者が古代の遺跡から壺を掘り起こした。
The archaeologist dug up a pot from the ancient ruins.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "犬が庭で骨を掘っている。" (Meaning: "The dog is digging for a bone in the garden.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "掘る" fits here because it means "to dig" in the context of: "The dog is digging for a bone in the garden.". "掘り起こす" represents "to dig up, to unearth, to bring to light".