Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Guide" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "guide", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
案内
あんない (annai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
指導する
しどうする (shidou suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "guide" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 案内 and 指導する.
In Japanese, 案内 (あんない (annai)) is typically associated with "guide; guidance; conducting; showing around" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to guiding, showing around, conducting, or providing guidance and instructions for a path or contents. Often used as 案内板 or 道案内. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Guidance! "Please guide me, Haruka-san!" ...っ, I-I will guide you through your entire life, so make sure you follow me strictly!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『あんない（案内）！『僕を引っ張って案内してください、ハルカさん！』って…っ、あんたの人生全部、私が完璧に案内（エスコート）してあげるから、死ぬまで私についてきなさい！』.
On the other hand, 指導する (しどうする (shidou suru)) maps to "to guide, to instruct, to coach, to lead" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents To teach or direct someone with expertise and authority, often implying a role like a teacher, coach, or mentor.. A literal translation of "guide" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "案内"
観光客が迷わないように、駅の出口には分かりやすい_______板が設置されていました。
To prevent tourists from getting lost, an easy-to-understand guide board was installed at the exit of the station.
Bilingual Context for "指導する"
先生は生徒たちに宿題のやり方を指導した。
The teacher instructed the students on how to do their homework.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "観光客が迷わないように、駅の出口には分かりやすい_______板が設置されていました。" (Meaning: "To prevent tourists from getting lost, an easy-to-understand guide board was installed at the exit of the station.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "案内" fits here because it means "guide; guidance; conducting; showing around" in the context of: "To prevent tourists from getting lost, an easy-to-understand guide board was installed at the exit of the station.". "指導する" represents "to guide, to instruct, to coach, to lead".