Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Doubt" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "doubt", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
疑問
ぎもん (gimon)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
疑惑
ぎわく (giwaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "doubt" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 疑問 and 疑惑.
In Japanese, 疑問 (ぎもん (gimon)) is typically associated with "doubt; question; problem" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a doubt, question, or problem in mind. Often used as 疑問を抱く.
On the other hand, 疑惑 (ぎわく (giwaku)) maps to "doubt; suspicion; distrust" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents ある事実や人物に対して疑いの気持ちを持つこと。悪いことや不正が行われたのではないかという疑いを指すことが多いです。. A literal translation of "doubt" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "疑問"
彼の説明にはいくつか矛盾があり、多くの人が_______を抱きました。
There were several contradictions in his explanation, and many people harbored doubts.
Bilingual Context for "疑惑"
彼の行動には様々な疑惑が持たれている。
There are various suspicions surrounding his actions.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の説明にはいくつか矛盾があり、多くの人が_______を抱きました。" (Meaning: "There were several contradictions in his explanation, and many people harbored doubts.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "疑問" fits here because it means "doubt; question; problem" in the context of: "There were several contradictions in his explanation, and many people harbored doubts.". "疑惑" represents "doubt; suspicion; distrust".