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
抱く
だく (daku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "hold" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 開催する and 抱く.
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, 抱く (だく (daku)) maps to "to hold, to embrace, to hug" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used for physically holding someone or something close, like a child or a pet. Can also mean to have feelings/thoughts. 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 "抱く"
子供を優しく抱いた。
He gently held the child.
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.". "抱く" represents "to hold, to embrace, to hug".