Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Know" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "know", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
知る
しる (shiru)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
わきまえる
わきまえる (wakimaeru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "know" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 知る and わきまえる.
In Japanese, 知る (しる (shiru)) is typically associated with "to know, to find out" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Used to express knowing information, facts, or people. Also means to find out. Polite form is 知ります.
On the other hand, わきまえる (わきまえる (wakimaeru)) maps to "to know one's place, to be discreet, to discern, to understand proper conduct" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Emphasizes understanding social norms, manners, or one's position and acting accordingly. Often implies good judgment in social situations.. A literal translation of "know" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "知る"
私は彼の名前を知っています。
I know his name.
Bilingual Context for "わきまえる"
彼は TPO をわきまえている人だ。
He is someone who understands proper etiquette (time, place, occasion).
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私は彼の名前を知っています。" (Meaning: "I know his name.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "知る" fits here because it means "to know, to find out" in the context of: "I know his name.". "わきまえる" represents "to know one's place, to be discreet, to discern, to understand proper conduct".