Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Eternity" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "eternity", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
永遠
えいえん (eien)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
永久
えいきゅう (eikyuu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "eternity" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 永遠 and 永久.
In Japanese, 永遠 (えいえん (eien)) is typically associated with "eternity, perpetuity" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents A noun.
On the other hand, 永久 (えいきゅう (eikyuu)) maps to "eternity; perpetuity; permanence" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to something lasting forever or an extremely long time without change. Often used in formal contexts or to emphasize lasting duration. Can be used as a noun or as a no-adjective. A literal translation of "eternity" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "永遠"
二人の愛が永遠に続くことを願う。
I hope our love lasts for eternity.
Bilingual Context for "永久"
永久の平和を願う。
I wish for eternal peace.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "二人の愛が ＿＿＿ に続くことを願う。" (Meaning: "I hope our love lasts for eternity.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "永遠" fits here because it means "eternity, perpetuity" in the context of: "I hope our love lasts for eternity.". "永久" represents "eternity; perpetuity; permanence".