Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "First" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "first", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
初めて
はじめて (hajimete)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
まず
まず (mazu)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "first" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 初めて and まず.
In Japanese, 初めて (はじめて (hajimete)) is typically associated with "for the first time" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Adverb. Used to describe an action or event occurring for the very first time in one's experience or in history..
On the other hand, まず (まず (mazu)) maps to "first of all, to begin with" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used when listing steps or priorities. It indicates the very first action to be taken in a sequence.. A literal translation of "first" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "初めて"
日本へ来たのは初めてです。
This is my first time coming to Japan.
Bilingual Context for "まず"
家に帰ったら、まず手を洗います。
When I get home, first I wash my hands.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "日本へ来たのは ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "This is my first time coming to Japan.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "初めて" fits here because it means "for the first time" in the context of: "This is my first time coming to Japan.". "まず" represents "first of all, to begin with".