Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Fail" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "fail", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
失敗する
しっぱいする (shippai suru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
しくじる
しくじる (shikujiru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "fail" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 失敗する and しくじる.
In Japanese, 失敗する (しっぱいする (shippai suru)) is typically associated with "to fail, to make a mistake" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents This is a する-verb, meaning it combines with する to form a verb. It indicates not succeeding in a task or making an error. Often used for tests, projects, or attempts..
On the other hand, しくじる (しくじる (shikujiru)) maps to "to fail, to blunder, to make a mistake (often a significant one)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Generally implies making a significant error or failure, often leading to negative consequences like getting fired, failing an exam, or messing up a crucial task. More casual than 失敗する. A literal translation of "fail" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "失敗する"
テストで失敗してしまいました。
I failed the test.
Bilingual Context for "しくじる"
大事な契約でしくじってしまい、会社に大きな損害を与えた。
I messed up a crucial contract and caused great damage to the company.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "テストで失敗してしまいました。" (Meaning: "I failed the test.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "失敗する" fits here because it means "to fail, to make a mistake" in the context of: "I failed the test.". "しくじる" represents "to fail, to blunder, to make a mistake (often a significant one)".