Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Labor" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "labor", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
手間
てま (tema)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
勤労
きんろう (kinrō)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "labor" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 手間 and 勤労.
In Japanese, 手間 (てま (tema)) is typically associated with "labor, effort, trouble, time and effort" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the time, effort, and labor required to do something. Often implies inconvenience or a burden..
On the other hand, 勤労 (きんろう (kinrō)) maps to "labor, work, diligence, industry" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A formal term for working or labor, often emphasizing the value of hard work and diligence. Used in phrases like 勤労感謝の日. A literal translation of "labor" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "手間"
この料理は手間がかかる。
This dish takes a lot of effort.
Bilingual Context for "勤労"
勤労の精神は日本の社会を支えてきた。
The spirit of diligence has supported Japanese society.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この料理は ＿＿＿ がかかる。" (Meaning: "This dish takes a lot of effort.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "手間" fits here because it means "labor, effort, trouble, time and effort" in the context of: "This dish takes a lot of effort.". "勤労" represents "labor, work, diligence, industry".