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
危惧
きぐ (kigu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "fear" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 恐怖 and 危惧.
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, 危惧 (きぐ (kigu)) maps to "fear, apprehension, misgivings, concern" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Expresses a strong concern or apprehension about a potential negative outcome or danger in the future. It's often used in more formal contexts than 恐れる. 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 "危惧"
環境破壊が地球の未来に与える影響を危惧している。
I fear the impact of environmental destruction on the future of the Earth.
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.". "危惧" represents "fear, apprehension, misgivings, concern".