Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Donation" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "donation", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
寄贈
きぞう (kizou)
N2 / 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 寄贈 and 贈与.
In Japanese, 寄贈 (きぞう (kizou)) is typically associated with "donation, presentation (of goods)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers specifically to donating goods.
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 "寄贈"
彼は図書館に貴重な古書を寄贈した。
He donated valuable old books to the library.
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: "彼は図書館に貴重な古書を ＿＿＿ した。" (Meaning: "He donated valuable old books to the library.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "寄贈" fits here because it means "donation, presentation (of goods)" in the context of: "He donated valuable old books to the library.". "贈与" represents "donation, gift, grant (especially in a formal or legal context)".