Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Fear" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "fear", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
恐怖
きょうふ (kyōfu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
危ぶむ
あやぶむ (ayabumu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "fear" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 恐怖 and 危ぶむ.
In Japanese, 恐怖 (きょうふ (kyōfu)) is typically associated with "fear; dread; terror" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to intense fear, dread, or terror caused by danger or frightening situations. Often used with 恐怖を感じる.
On the other hand, 危ぶむ (あやぶむ (ayabumu)) maps to "To fear, to have misgivings about, to be anxious about, to be afraid of (failure, etc.)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Expresses apprehension or doubt about the success or safety of something. Often implies a worry about potential negative outcomes or uncertainty.. A literal translation of "fear" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "恐怖"
高い所に立つと、強い恐怖を感じます。
When I stand in a high place, I feel strong fear.
Bilingual Context for "危ぶむ"
彼の計画の実現は、多くの人が危ぶんでいる。
Many people have misgivings about the realization of his plan.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "高い所に立つと、強い ＿＿＿ を感じます。" (Meaning: "When I stand in a high place, I feel strong fear.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "恐怖" fits here because it means "fear; dread; terror" in the context of: "When I stand in a high place, I feel strong fear.". "危ぶむ" represents "To fear, to have misgivings about, to be anxious about, to be afraid of (failure, etc.)".