Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Ecstasy" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "ecstasy", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
恍惚
こうこつ (kōkotsu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
陶酔
とうすい (tōsui)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "ecstasy" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 恍惚 and 陶酔.
In Japanese, 恍惚 (こうこつ (kōkotsu)) is typically associated with "ecstasy, rapture, trance, enchantment" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 心が奪われ、うっとりとして我を忘れるほどの状態を指します。極度の喜びや集中を表す際に用いられます。.
On the other hand, 陶酔 (とうすい (tōsui)) maps to "ecstasy, intoxication, rapture" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A state of being deeply absorbed, enchanted, or captivated by something. A literal translation of "ecstasy" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "恍惚"
彼女は美しい音楽を聴きながら恍惚とした表情を浮かべた。
She had an enraptured expression while listening to the beautiful music.
Bilingual Context for "陶酔"
彼は美しい音楽に陶酔していた。
He was in ecstasy over the beautiful music.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼女は美しい音楽を聴きながら ＿＿＿ とした表情を浮かべた。" (Meaning: "She had an enraptured expression while listening to the beautiful music.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "恍惚" fits here because it means "ecstasy, rapture, trance, enchantment" in the context of: "She had an enraptured expression while listening to the beautiful music.". "陶酔" represents "ecstasy, intoxication, rapture".