Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Excuse" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "excuse", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
すみません
すみません (sumimasen)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
口実
こうじつ (kōjitsu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "excuse" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between すみません and 口実.
In Japanese, すみません (すみません (sumimasen)) is typically associated with "Excuse me; I'm sorry; Thank you." (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents A versatile phrase. Can be used to apologize, get attention, or express gratitude.
On the other hand, 口実 (こうじつ (kōjitsu)) maps to "an excuse; a pretext" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a reason given to hide the real reason or to avoid doing something. Often implies a fabricated or insincere reason.. A literal translation of "excuse" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "すみません"
すみません、ちょっといいですか。
Excuse me, do you have a moment?
Bilingual Context for "口実"
彼は忙しいのを口実にして、手伝いを断った。
He used being busy as an excuse to refuse to help.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 、ちょっといいですか。" (Meaning: "Excuse me, do you have a moment?")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "すみません" fits here because it means "Excuse me; I'm sorry; Thank you." in the context of: "Excuse me, do you have a moment?". "口実" represents "an excuse; a pretext".