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
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 案内する and 指導する.
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, 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 "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: "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.". "指導する" represents "to guide, to instruct, to coach, to lead".