Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Empty" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "empty", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
からっぽ
からっぽ (karappo)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
空疎
くうそ (kūso)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "empty" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between からっぽ and 空疎.
In Japanese, からっぽ (からっぽ (karappo)) is typically associated with "empty" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Expresses something being completely empty. Often used for containers or a feeling of emptiness. Can be written 空っぽ. 何も入っていない状態を強調する際に使われます。容器だけでなく、心が「からっぽ」になるなどの心情表現にも使えます。.
On the other hand, 空疎 (くうそ (kūso)) maps to "empty, hollow, meaningless, unsubstantial" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes something that lacks substance, content, or meaning, often used for ideas, arguments, discussions, or speeches that are superficial or shallow. It carries a negative connotation.. A literal translation of "empty" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "からっぽ"
箱の中はからっぽだった。
The inside of the box was empty.
Bilingual Context for "空疎"
彼の演説は空疎な内容で、聴衆の心に響かなかった。
His speech had hollow content and did not resonate with the audience.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "箱の中は ＿＿＿ だった。" (Meaning: "The inside of the box was empty.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "からっぽ" fits here because it means "empty" in the context of: "The inside of the box was empty.". "空疎" represents "empty, hollow, meaningless, unsubstantial".