Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Hide" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "hide", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
隠れる
かくれる (kakureru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
ひそむ
ひそむ (hisomu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "hide" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 隠れる and ひそむ.
In Japanese, 隠れる (かくれる (kakureru)) is typically associated with "to hide (oneself), to be hidden (intransitive)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents An intransitive verb. The subject itself takes action to hide, or is in a state of being hidden from view. Often used with particles に or から。.
On the other hand, ひそむ (ひそむ (hisomu)) maps to "to hide, to lurk, to be concealed" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Implies something is hidden intentionally, or a feeling/quality that is latent within something. Often used for dangers, secrets, or subtle intentions.. A literal translation of "hide" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "隠れる"
子供たちは鬼ごっこで木陰に隠れた。
The children hid behind the trees during tag.
Bilingual Context for "ひそむ"
その森には危険がひそんでいる。
Danger lurks in that forest.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "子供たちは鬼ごっこで木陰に隠れた。" (Meaning: "The children hid behind the trees during tag.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "隠れる" fits here because it means "to hide (oneself), to be hidden (intransitive)" in the context of: "The children hid behind the trees during tag.". "ひそむ" represents "to hide, to lurk, to be concealed".