Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Guidance" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "guidance", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
案内
あんない (annai)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
指導
しどう (shidō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "guidance" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 案内 and 指導.
In Japanese, 案内 (あんない (annai)) is typically associated with "guidance; information; showing around" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents 名詞としても「案内する」という動詞としても使われます。道や場所を示すときに使います。.
On the other hand, 指導 (しどう (shidō)) maps to "guidance, leadership, instruction" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Can be used as a noun or a suru-verb. A literal translation of "guidance" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "案内"
駅で観光案内をもらいました。
I received tourist information at the station.
Bilingual Context for "指導"
先生が新入生に学校のルールを指導します。
The teacher instructs new students on school rules.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "駅で観光 ＿＿＿ をもらいました。" (Meaning: "I received tourist information at the station.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "案内" fits here because it means "guidance; information; showing around" in the context of: "I received tourist information at the station.". "指導" represents "guidance, leadership, instruction".