Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Like" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "like", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
気に入る
きにいる (ki ni iru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
好む
このむ (konomu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "like" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 気に入る and 好む.
In Japanese, 気に入る (きにいる (ki ni iru)) is typically associated with "to like, to be pleased with, to take a fancy to" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Expresses that one is pleased with something or takes a liking to it. Used when something meets one's preference or taste..
On the other hand, 好む (このむ (konomu)) maps to "to like, to prefer" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents More formal than 好き. A literal translation of "like" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "気に入る"
このレストランの雰囲気がとても気に入りました。
I really liked the atmosphere of this restaurant.
Bilingual Context for "好む"
彼は静かな環境を好みます。
He prefers a quiet environment.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "このレストランの雰囲気がとても気に入りました。" (Meaning: "I really liked the atmosphere of this restaurant.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "気に入る" fits here because it means "to like, to be pleased with, to take a fancy to" in the context of: "I really liked the atmosphere of this restaurant.". "好む" represents "to like, to prefer".