Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Disturbance" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "disturbance", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
動乱
どうらん (dōran)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
動揺
どうよう (douyou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "disturbance" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 動乱 and 動揺.
In Japanese, 動乱 (どうらん (dōran)) is typically associated with "disturbance; commotion; upheaval; turbulence; mental storm" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a social/political disturbance, commotion, upheaval, or turbulence.
On the other hand, 動揺 (どうよう (douyou)) maps to "disturbance, unrest, agitation, shaking (emotionally)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to emotional instability or agitation, often caused by shock or uncertainty. Can also imply a lack of stability in a situation or system. Can be a noun or する verb.. A literal translation of "disturbance" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "動乱"
世紀末の政情不安に伴い、国内各地で_______が発生し、治安が極端に悪化しました。
With the political instability at the end of the century, disturbances occurred in various places in the country, extremely deteriorating public safety.
Bilingual Context for "動揺"
予期せぬニュースに、彼女はひどく動揺した。
She was deeply agitated by the unexpected news.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "世紀末の政情不安に伴い、国内各地で_______が発生し、治安が極端に悪化しました。" (Meaning: "With the political instability at the end of the century, disturbances occurred in various places in the country, extremely deteriorating public safety.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "動乱" fits here because it means "disturbance; commotion; upheaval; turbulence; mental storm" in the context of: "With the political instability at the end of the century, disturbances occurred in various places in the country, extremely deteriorating public safety.". "動揺" represents "disturbance, unrest, agitation, shaking (emotionally)".