Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Encouragement" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "encouragement", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
激励
げきれい (geirei)
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 激励 and 督励.
In Japanese, 激励 (げきれい (geirei)) is typically associated with "encouragement; cheering on; urging on" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents To give someone positive words or actions to boost their morale, motivate them, or cheer them up, especially when they are facing a challenge or feeling down. Often used for groups or individuals in formal or semi-formal situations..
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 "激励"
監督は試合前の選手たちに熱い激励の言葉をかけた。
The coach gave passionate words of encouragement to the players before the game.
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: "監督は試合前の選手たちに熱い ＿＿＿ の言葉をかけた。" (Meaning: "The coach gave passionate words of encouragement to the players before the game.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "激励" fits here because it means "encouragement; cheering on; urging on" in the context of: "The coach gave passionate words of encouragement to the players before the game.". "督励" represents "encouragement, urging, supervision and encouragement".