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
催す
もよおす (moyoosu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "hold" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 開催する and 催す.
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, 催す (もよおす (moyoosu)) maps to "to hold (a meeting, event), to feel (a sensation, urge), to show signs of" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 会合などを開く、または、ある感情や生理現象が起こり始めることを表す他動詞です。/ A transitive verb meaning to hold a meeting or event, or for a certain emotion or physiological phenomenon to begin to occur.. 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 "催す"
近所のホールでコンサートが催される予定だ。
A concert is scheduled to be held at the nearby hall.
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.". "催す" represents "to hold (a meeting, event), to feel (a sensation, urge), to show signs of".