Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Improvement" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "improvement", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
向上
こうじょう (kōjō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
上達
じょうたつ (jōtatsu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "improvement" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 向上 and 上達.
In Japanese, 向上 (こうじょう (kōjō)) is typically associated with "improvement, advancement, progress" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents 主に能力や技術、品質などがより良い状態になることを指します。動詞としては「向上する」や「向上させる」の形で使われます。.
On the other hand, 上達 (じょうたつ (jōtatsu)) maps to "improvement, progress, skillfulness" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used for improvements in skills, abilities, or academic performance. Often used with する. A literal translation of "improvement" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "向上"
日本語の能力を向上させるために、毎日勉強しています。
I study every day to improve my Japanese language skills.
Bilingual Context for "上達"
彼の日本語は留学して格段に上達した。
His Japanese improved remarkably after studying abroad.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "日本語の能力を ＿＿＿ させるために、毎日勉強しています。" (Meaning: "I study every day to improve my Japanese language skills.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "向上" fits here because it means "improvement, advancement, progress" in the context of: "I study every day to improve my Japanese language skills.". "上達" represents "improvement, progress, skillfulness".