Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Kind" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "kind", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
親切
しんせつ (shinsetsu)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
懇切
こんせつ (konsetsu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "kind" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 親切 and 懇切.
In Japanese, 親切 (しんせつ (shinsetsu)) is typically associated with "kind; gentle; friendly" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents A na-adjective. Used to describe a person's kind and considerate nature. Often used with 「に」 to describe an action..
On the other hand, 懇切 (こんせつ (konsetsu)) maps to "kind and thorough; elaborate; meticulous (explanation, guidance)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 説明や指導が「非常に丁寧で、わかりやすく、親身になっている」様子を表す形容動詞です。/ An adjectival noun describing an explanation or guidance that is 'extremely polite, easy to understand, and thoughtful/personable'.. A literal translation of "kind" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "親切"
彼女はとても親切な人です。
She is a very kind person.
Bilingual Context for "懇切"
先生は生徒一人ひとりに懇切な指導をしてくださった。
The teacher gave kind and thorough guidance to each and every student.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼女はとても ＿＿＿ な人です。" (Meaning: "She is a very kind person.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "親切" fits here because it means "kind; gentle; friendly" in the context of: "She is a very kind person.". "懇切" represents "kind and thorough; elaborate; meticulous (explanation, guidance)".