Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Learn" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "learn", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
ならいます
ならいます (naraimasu)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
ならう
ならう (narau)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "learn" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between ならいます and ならう.
In Japanese, ならいます (ならいます (naraimasu)) is typically associated with "to learn, to be taught" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Used for learning skills, subjects, or languages from someone.
On the other hand, ならう (ならう (narau)) maps to "to learn, to take lessons" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Implies learning from a teacher or through formal instruction. Often used with が or を.. A literal translation of "learn" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "ならいます"
私は日本語を習っています。
I am learning Japanese.
Bilingual Context for "ならう"
私は日本語を習っています。
I am learning Japanese.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私は日本語を習っています。" (Meaning: "I am learning Japanese.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "ならいます" fits here because it means "to learn, to be taught" in the context of: "I am learning Japanese.". "ならう" represents "to learn, to take lessons".