Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Hold" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "hold", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
開催する
かいさいする (kaisai suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
かかえる
かかえる (kakaeru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "hold" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 開催する and かかえる.
In Japanese, 開催する (かいさいする (kaisai suru)) is typically associated with "to hold (an event), to organize, to host" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used for events, meetings, festivals, etc. It implies the act of arranging and making something happen..
On the other hand, かかえる (かかえる (kakaeru)) maps to "to hold in one's arms, to embrace, to have (a problem/debt)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Has two main meanings: physically holding something heavy or bulky in one's arms, or figuratively having a problem/burden/debt.. A literal translation of "hold" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "開催する"
来月、新しい展示会が開催されます。
A new exhibition will be held next month.
Bilingual Context for "かかえる"
彼女はたくさんの荷物を抱えて電車に乗った。
She got on the train holding many bags.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "来月、新しい展示会が開催されます。" (Meaning: "A new exhibition will be held next month.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "開催する" fits here because it means "to hold (an event), to organize, to host" in the context of: "A new exhibition will be held next month.". "かかえる" represents "to hold in one's arms, to embrace, to have (a problem/debt)".