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Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "Encouragement" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "encouragement", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

鼓舞

こぶ (kobu)
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 鼓舞 and 督励. In Japanese, 鼓舞 (こぶ (kobu)) is typically associated with "encouragement, inspiration, stirring up" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents To encourage, uplift, or inspire someone, often in a group setting or for a common goal. Used with 「する」. 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 "鼓舞"
監督は選手たちを鼓舞し、チームの士気を高めた。
The coach encouraged the players and boosted the team's morale.
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: "監督は選手たちを ___ し、チームの士気を高めた。" (Meaning: "The coach encouraged the players and boosted the team's morale.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "鼓舞" fits here because it means "encouragement, inspiration, stirring up" in the context of: "The coach encouraged the players and boosted the team's morale.". "督励" represents "encouragement, urging, supervision and encouragement".