Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Excess" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "excess", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
過剰
かじょう (kajō)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
過度
かど (kado)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "excess" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 過剰 and 過度.
In Japanese, 過剰 (かじょう (kajō)) is typically associated with "excess, surplus, overabundant" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to something being more than necessary or desired. Often used with nouns like 供給.
On the other hand, 過度 (かど (kado)) maps to "excess; immoderation; exorbitance" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to an excessive *degree*, *intensity*, or *action*, often implying impropriety or danger. Can be used as a noun or as a な-adjective. A literal translation of "excess" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "過剰"
市場には商品の過剰供給が見られる。
There is an oversupply of goods in the market.
Bilingual Context for "過度"
過度な飲酒は健康を害する。
Excessive drinking harms one's health.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "市場には商品の ＿＿＿ 供給が見られる。" (Meaning: "There is an oversupply of goods in the market.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "過剰" fits here because it means "excess, surplus, overabundant" in the context of: "There is an oversupply of goods in the market.". "過度" represents "excess; immoderation; exorbitance".