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
言い訳
いいわけ (iiwake)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "excuse" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 口実 and 言い訳.
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, 言い訳 (いいわけ (iiwake)) maps to "excuse, explanation" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used for giving reasons to avoid responsibility or for a minor mistake. Can have a negative connotation.. 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 "言い訳"
彼はいつも言い訳ばかりしている。
He's always making excuses.
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.". "言い訳" represents "excuse, explanation".