Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Donation" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "donation", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
寄付
きふ (kifu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
贈与
ぞうよ (zōyo)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "donation" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 寄付 and 贈与.
In Japanese, 寄付 (きふ (kifu)) is typically associated with "donation, contribution" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used when giving money or goods to charities, organizations, or causes. Often implies generosity and support..
On the other hand, 贈与 (ぞうよ (zōyo)) maps to "donation, gift, grant (especially in a formal or legal context)" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents More formal and often carries legal or administrative implications compared to common words for gifts. A literal translation of "donation" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "寄付"
彼はその慈善団体に多額の寄付をした。
He made a large donation to that charity.
Bilingual Context for "贈与"
彼は大学に多額の寄付金を贈与した。
He donated a large sum of money to the university.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼はその慈善団体に多額の ＿＿＿ をした。" (Meaning: "He made a large donation to that charity.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "寄付" fits here because it means "donation, contribution" in the context of: "He made a large donation to that charity.". "贈与" represents "donation, gift, grant (especially in a formal or legal context)".