Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Encouragement" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "encouragement", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
奨励
しょうれい (shōrei)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
督励
とくれい (tokurei)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "encouragement" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 奨励 and 督励.
In Japanese, 奨励 (しょうれい (shōrei)) is typically associated with "encouragement, promotion" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used for encouraging or promoting an activity, behavior, or idea. Often used in formal contexts or policies..
On the other hand, 督励 (とくれい (tokurei)) maps to "encouragement, urging, supervision and encouragement" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Implies urging someone to do their best, often with a sense of supervision or guidance to ensure they complete a task or improve. More formal than just 'encouragement'. A literal translation of "encouragement" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "奨励"
政府は省エネを奨励している。
The government is promoting energy conservation.
Bilingual Context for "督励"
上司の督励があったおかげで、プロジェクトは無事成功した。
Thanks to the boss's supervision and encouragement, the project was successfully completed.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "政府は省エネを ＿＿＿ している。" (Meaning: "The government is promoting energy conservation.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "奨励" fits here because it means "encouragement, promotion" in the context of: "The government is promoting energy conservation.". "督励" represents "encouragement, urging, supervision and encouragement".