Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Inheritance" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "inheritance", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
継承
けいしょう (keishou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
遺産
いさん (isan)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "inheritance" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 継承 and 遺産.
In Japanese, 継承 (けいしょう (keishou)) is typically associated with "inheritance, succession, taking over (a legacy, tradition, property)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents The act of taking over or succeeding something that existed before, such as a legacy, tradition, property, or a role/position..
On the other hand, 遺産 (いさん (isan)) maps to "inheritance, legacy, heritage" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often refers to property, money, or cultural assets passed down from ancestors or a previous generation. Can also mean cultural heritage.. A literal translation of "inheritance" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "継承"
彼は父親の会社を継承した。
He inherited his father's company.
Bilingual Context for "遺産"
彼は父から多額の遺産を受け取った。
He received a large inheritance from his father.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は父親の会社を ＿＿＿ した。" (Meaning: "He inherited his father's company.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "継承" fits here because it means "inheritance, succession, taking over (a legacy, tradition, property)" in the context of: "He inherited his father's company.". "遺産" represents "inheritance, legacy, heritage".