Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Guide" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "guide", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
案内する
あんないする (annai suru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
手引き
てびき (tebiki)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "guide" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 案内する and 手引き.
In Japanese, 案内する (あんないする (annai suru)) is typically associated with "to guide, to show around" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A する-verb. Used when showing someone the way or giving a tour..
On the other hand, 手引き (てびき (tebiki)) maps to "guide, guidance, manual, introduction" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 物事を始める際や、ある分野に進む際に、必要な知識や方法を教えたり、案内したりすること。また、そのための書物。. A literal translation of "guide" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "案内する"
私が東京の観光地を案内します。
I will show you around the tourist spots in Tokyo.
Bilingual Context for "手引き"
新入社員のために、仕事の手引きを作成した。
We created a work manual for the new employees.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私が東京の観光地を案内します。" (Meaning: "I will show you around the tourist spots in Tokyo.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "案内する" fits here because it means "to guide, to show around" in the context of: "I will show you around the tourist spots in Tokyo.". "手引き" represents "guide, guidance, manual, introduction".