Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Excuse" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "excuse", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
口実
こうじつ (kōjitsu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
弁解
べんかい (benkai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "excuse" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 口実 and 弁解.
In Japanese, 口実 (こうじつ (kōjitsu)) is typically associated with "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..
On the other hand, 弁解 (べんかい (benkai)) maps to "excuse; explanation; justification; defense" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to making excuses, explaining one's actions to avoid blame, or defending oneself. Often used as 弁解する. A literal translation of "excuse" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "弁解"
どれだけ見苦しい_______を重ねても、犯したミスが消えるわけではありません。
No matter how many unsightly excuses you pile up, the mistake you made will not disappear.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は忙しいのを ＿＿＿ にして、手伝いを断った。" (Meaning: "He used being busy as an excuse to refuse to help.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "口実" fits here because it means "an excuse; a pretext" in the context of: "He used being busy as an excuse to refuse to help.". "弁解" represents "excuse; explanation; justification; defense".