Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Income" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "income", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
所得
しょとく (shotoku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
実入り
みいり (mi-iri)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "income" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 所得 and 実入り.
In Japanese, 所得 (しょとく (shotoku)) is typically associated with "income" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to earnings, especially in an economic or financial context, often used in relation to taxes or official financial statements. It's often the amount after certain deductions, distinct from gross '収入.
On the other hand, 実入り (みいり (mi-iri)) maps to "income, earnings, profit" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the actual income or profit from work, business, or investment. Often used in the context of financial gains or losses. A literal translation of "income" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "所得"
昨年は所得税の申告が少し遅れてしまった。
I was a little late filing my income tax last year.
Bilingual Context for "実入り"
今月の実入りは思ったより少なかった。
This month's income was less than I expected.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "昨年は ＿＿＿ 税の申告が少し遅れてしまった。" (Meaning: "I was a little late filing my income tax last year.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "所得" fits here because it means "income" in the context of: "I was a little late filing my income tax last year.". "実入り" represents "income, earnings, profit".