Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Duty" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "duty", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
義務
ぎむ (gimu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
義理
ぎり (giri)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "duty" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 義務 and 義理.
In Japanese, 義務 (ぎむ (gimu)) is typically associated with "duty; obligation" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a duty, obligation, or legal/moral responsibility. Contrast with 権利.
On the other hand, 義理 (ぎり (giri)) maps to "duty, obligation, sense of duty, social obligation" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A strong sense of social obligation or duty, especially in Japanese culture, often involving returning favors or fulfilling responsibilities towards others.. A literal translation of "duty" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "義務"
国民には、納税の義務があります。
Citizens have a duty to pay taxes.
Bilingual Context for "義理"
彼は友人の頼みを義理で断ることができなかった。
He couldn't refuse his friend's request out of obligation.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "国民には、納税の ＿＿＿ があります。" (Meaning: "Citizens have a duty to pay taxes.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "義務" fits here because it means "duty; obligation" in the context of: "Citizens have a duty to pay taxes.". "義理" represents "duty, obligation, sense of duty, social obligation".