Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Example" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "example", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
例えば
たとえば (tatoeba)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
例
れい (rei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "example" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 例えば and 例.
In Japanese, 例えば (たとえば (tatoeba)) is typically associated with "for example; for instance" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used to introduce an example or illustration to clarify a statement. It can be used at the beginning of a sentence or a clause..
On the other hand, 例 (れい (rei)) maps to "example, instance, precedent, custom, usage, case" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Can refer to a specific instance used to illustrate a point, or an established custom/rule. Often used with ~えば. A literal translation of "example" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "例えば"
日本には色々な食べ物があります。例えば、寿司やラーメンなどです。
There are various foods in Japan. For example, sushi, ramen, and so on.
Bilingual Context for "例"
例えば、この文を見てください。
For example, please look at this sentence.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "日本には色々な食べ物があります。 ＿＿＿ 、寿司やラーメンなどです。" (Meaning: "There are various foods in Japan. For example, sushi, ramen, and so on.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "例えば" fits here because it means "for example; for instance" in the context of: "There are various foods in Japan. For example, sushi, ramen, and so on.". "例" represents "example, instance, precedent, custom, usage, case".