Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Fragile" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "fragile", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
脆弱
ぜいじゃく (zeijaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
もろい
もろい (moroi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "fragile" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 脆弱 and もろい.
In Japanese, 脆弱 (ぜいじゃく (zeijaku)) is typically associated with "fragile, weak, brittle" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used to describe systems, organizations, or mental/physical states that are easily broken, damaged, or overcome. Not typically used for physical objects like glass..
On the other hand, もろい (もろい (moroi)) maps to "fragile, brittle, frail, weak (emotionally)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes something that breaks easily, either physically. A literal translation of "fragile" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "脆弱"
そのシステムはセキュリティが脆弱だ。
The security of that system is fragile.
Bilingual Context for "もろい"
このガラス製品はとてももろいので、注意してください。
This glass product is very fragile, so please be careful.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "そのシステムはセキュリティが ＿＿＿ だ。" (Meaning: "The security of that system is fragile.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "脆弱" fits here because it means "fragile, weak, brittle" in the context of: "The security of that system is fragile.". "もろい" represents "fragile, brittle, frail, weak (emotionally)".