Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Feel" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "feel", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
感じる
かんじる (kanjiru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
気軽に
きがるに (kigaruni)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "feel" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 感じる and 気軽に.
In Japanese, 感じる (かんじる (kanjiru)) is typically associated with "to feel, to sense" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents 感情や感覚、ある印象などを心や体でとらえること。他動詞。/ To perceive emotions, sensations, or impressions with one's mind or body. Transitive verb..
On the other hand, 気軽に (きがるに (kigaruni)) maps to "feel free to; without hesitation; casually; readily" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents 遠慮したり、かしこまったりせず、軽やかで自由な様子を表す副詞。. A literal translation of "feel" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "感じる"
寒さを感じます。
I feel cold.
Bilingual Context for "気軽に"
困ったことがあったら、気軽に相談してください。
If you have any problems, please feel free to consult me.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "寒さを感じます。" (Meaning: "I feel cold.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "感じる" fits here because it means "to feel, to sense" in the context of: "I feel cold.". "気軽に" represents "feel free to; without hesitation; casually; readily".