Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Little" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "little", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
多少
たしょう (tashō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
いささか
いささか (isasaka)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "little" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 多少 and いささか.
In Japanese, 多少 (たしょう (tashō)) is typically associated with "a little, a few, somewhat, more or less" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to express a small degree or amount; 'somewhat' or 'to some extent'. It implies a slight difference or a minor effect. Can also mean 'more or less' when comparing things..
On the other hand, いささか (いささか (isasaka)) maps to "a little, somewhat (often with a nuance of 'a little too much' or modest understatement)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Adverb. Means 'a little' or 'somewhat'. It often carries a formal or literary tone and can imply a slight dissatisfaction or a polite understatement of degree. Used for abstract concepts rather than physical quantities.. A literal translation of "little" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "多少"
彼の日本語は、まだ多少間違いがある。
His Japanese still has a few mistakes.
Bilingual Context for "いささか"
彼の態度は、いささか傲慢に感じられた。
His attitude felt somewhat arrogant.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の日本語は、まだ ＿＿＿ 間違いがある。" (Meaning: "His Japanese still has a few mistakes.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "多少" fits here because it means "a little, a few, somewhat, more or less" in the context of: "His Japanese still has a few mistakes.". "いささか" represents "a little, somewhat (often with a nuance of 'a little too much' or modest understatement)".