Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Evidence" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "evidence", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
証拠
しょうこ (shōko)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
裏付け
うらづけ (urazuke)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "evidence" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 証拠 and 裏付け.
In Japanese, 証拠 (しょうこ (shōko)) is typically associated with "evidence, proof" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Information or objects that indicate the truth or falsity of something, often used in legal contexts, investigations, or arguments. It's about factual proof..
On the other hand, 裏付け (うらづけ (urazuke)) maps to "evidence, corroboration, support, backing" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used in formal or academic contexts when discussing proof or justification for a statement or claim. Can be used as a noun or verb. A literal translation of "evidence" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "証拠"
警察は事件の証拠を探しています。
The police are looking for evidence of the incident.
Bilingual Context for "裏付け"
彼の主張には確かな裏付けがある。
His claim has solid evidence.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "警察は事件の ＿＿＿ を探しています。" (Meaning: "The police are looking for evidence of the incident.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "証拠" fits here because it means "evidence, proof" in the context of: "The police are looking for evidence of the incident.". "裏付け" represents "evidence, corroboration, support, backing".