Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Gradually" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "gradually", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
徐々に
じょじょに (jojoni)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
漸次
ぜんじ (zenji)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "gradually" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 徐々に and 漸次.
In Japanese, 徐々に (じょじょに (jojoni)) is typically associated with "gradually, steadily, little by little" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used to describe a slow, continuous change or progression. It implies a gentle and unhurried movement towards a state or goal..
On the other hand, 漸次 (ぜんじ (zenji)) maps to "gradually; by degrees; little by little" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Similar to 徐々に. A literal translation of "gradually" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "徐々に"
日本語が徐々に上達しています。
My Japanese is gradually improving.
Bilingual Context for "漸次"
改革は漸次的に進められるべきだ。
Reforms should be advanced gradually.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "日本語が ＿＿＿ 上達しています。" (Meaning: "My Japanese is gradually improving.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "徐々に" fits here because it means "gradually, steadily, little by little" in the context of: "My Japanese is gradually improving.". "漸次" represents "gradually; by degrees; little by little".