Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Install" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "install", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
取り付ける
とりつける (toritsukeru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
備え付ける
そなえつける (sonaetsukeru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "install" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 取り付ける and 備え付ける.
In Japanese, 取り付ける (とりつける (toritsukeru)) is typically associated with "to install, to attach, to mount; to obtain, to secure (e.g., a contract)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 部品や器具などを所定の位置にしっかりと固定する際に使います。また、交渉や取引を成立させる、合意を得るという意味でも使われます。/ Used when firmly fixing parts or equipment in place. Also used to mean securing a negotiation or deal, or obtaining an agreement..
On the other hand, 備え付ける (そなえつける (sonaetsukeru)) maps to "to install; to equip; to furnish" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 主に建物や部屋に家具、家電、設備などを固定して設置する際に使う他動詞です。. A literal translation of "install" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "取り付ける"
新しいエアコンを壁に取り付けた。
I installed a new air conditioner on the wall.
Bilingual Context for "備え付ける"
このアパートはエアコンが備え付けられています。
This apartment comes with an air conditioner installed.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "新しいエアコンを壁に取り付けた。" (Meaning: "I installed a new air conditioner on the wall.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "取り付ける" fits here because it means "to install, to attach, to mount; to obtain, to secure (e.g., a contract)" in the context of: "I installed a new air conditioner on the wall.". "備え付ける" represents "to install; to equip; to furnish".