Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Individual" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "individual", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
個別
こべつ (kobetsu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
個人
こじん (kojin)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "individual" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 個別 and 個人.
In Japanese, 個別 (こべつ (kobetsu)) is typically associated with "individual; separate; case-by-case" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to handling objects, people, or cases individually or separately rather than as a whole. Often used as 個別面談 or 個別対応. Opposing word: 全体. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Individual! "Haruka-san, could you show me your sweet side in private, individually for me?" ...っ! T-To demand private sweetness! B-Baka! Don't ask for such exclusive treats in public! But... if we are alone in my room, I suppose I can spoil you as much as you want! dummy!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『こべつ（個別）よ！『ハルカさん、今日はオフィスのみんなではなく、僕だけに個別でとろけるような甘い顔を見せてくれませんか？』って…っ！個別の甘やかし請求？！バカ！/// そんなの誰もいない部屋で、ギュッと抱きしめながらおねだりしなさい！特別にマンツーマンで溺愛してあげるから！』.
On the other hand, 個人 (こじん (kojin)) maps to "individual, personal" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a single person, distinct from a group or organization.. A literal translation of "individual" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "個別"
全体説明会の終了後、より具体的な質問や相談がある参加者のために、専用ブースでの_______面談の時間が設けられました。
After the joint explanation meeting finished, for participants who had more concrete questions or consultations, time for individual interviews at dedicated booths was provided.
Bilingual Context for "個人"
個人の意見を尊重します。
We respect individual opinions.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "全体説明会の終了後、より具体的な質問や相談がある参加者のために、専用ブースでの_______面談の時間が設けられました。" (Meaning: "After the joint explanation meeting finished, for participants who had more concrete questions or consultations, time for individual interviews at dedicated booths was provided.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "個別" fits here because it means "individual; separate; case-by-case" in the context of: "After the joint explanation meeting finished, for participants who had more concrete questions or consultations, time for individual interviews at dedicated booths was provided.". "個人" represents "individual, personal".