Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Imitate" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "imitate", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
真似る
まねる (maneru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
倣う
ならう (narau)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "imitate" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 真似る and 倣う.
In Japanese, 真似る (まねる (maneru)) is typically associated with "to imitate; to mimic; to copy" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used when imitating actions, sounds, or appearances. Can be used for both positive.
On the other hand, 倣う (ならう (narau)) maps to "to imitate, to follow (an example/precedent), to conform to" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents 手本や規範、慣例などに従って行動することを表します。単に真似るだけでなく、それに沿うという意味合いが強いです。. A literal translation of "imitate" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "真似る"
彼は先生の話し方を真似るのが得意です。
He is good at imitating his teacher's way of speaking.
Bilingual Context for "倣う"
私たちは前例に倣って、今年の計画を立てた。
We made this year's plan following the precedent.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は先生の話し方を ＿＿＿ のが得意です。" (Meaning: "He is good at imitating his teacher's way of speaking.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "真似る" fits here because it means "to imitate; to mimic; to copy" in the context of: "He is good at imitating his teacher's way of speaking.". "倣う" represents "to imitate, to follow (an example/precedent), to conform to".