Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Free" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "free", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
無料
むりょう (muryou)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
無償
むしょう (mushō)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "free" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 無料 and 無償.
In Japanese, 無料 (むりょう (muryou)) is typically associated with "free of charge, complimentary" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used to indicate that something costs no money. Often seen on signs for services or goods.
On the other hand, 無償 (むしょう (mushō)) maps to "free of charge, without compensation, gratuitous" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Indicates that something is provided or done without expecting payment, reward, or compensation. Often used for volunteer work or charitable acts.. A literal translation of "free" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "無料"
このアプリは無料でダウンロードできます。
You can download this app for free.
Bilingual Context for "無償"
彼は地域社会のために無償で奉仕している。
He volunteers his services to the local community free of charge.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "このアプリは ＿＿＿ でダウンロードできます。" (Meaning: "You can download this app for free.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "無料" fits here because it means "free of charge, complimentary" in the context of: "You can download this app for free.". "無償" represents "free of charge, without compensation, gratuitous".