Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Have" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "have", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
あります
あります (arimasu)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
見晴らしが良い
みはらしがよい (miharashi ga yoi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "have" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between あります and 見晴らしが良い.
In Japanese, あります (あります (arimasu)) is typically associated with "to have, to exist (inanimate objects)" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Polite form of ある. Used for the existence or possession of inanimate objects..
On the other hand, 見晴らしが良い (みはらしがよい (miharashi ga yoi)) maps to "to have a good view, to have a panoramic view" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes a location or position from which one can see a wide, clear, and often beautiful landscape or scenery. Implies an unobstructed and pleasant view.. A literal translation of "have" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "あります"
机の上に本があります。
There is a book on the desk.
Bilingual Context for "見晴らしが良い"
このホテルの部屋は、窓からの見晴らしが良い。
This hotel room has a good view from the window.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "机の上に本が ＿＿＿ 。" (Meaning: "There is a book on the desk.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "あります" fits here because it means "to have, to exist (inanimate objects)" in the context of: "There is a book on the desk.". "見晴らしが良い" represents "to have a good view, to have a panoramic view".