Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Low" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "low", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
ひくい
ひくい (hikui)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
低い
ひくい (hikui)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "low" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between ひくい and 低い.
In Japanese, ひくい (ひくい (hikui)) is typically associated with "low, short" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents An い-adjective. Used to describe something low in height or position. Opposite of 高い.
On the other hand, 低い (ひくい (hikui)) maps to "low; short (height); humble (voice)" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents An i-adjective. Used for physical height. A literal translation of "low" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "ひくい"
この机はひくいですね。
This desk is low, isn't it?
Bilingual Context for "低い"
この机は背が低い人にはちょうどいいです。
This desk is just right for short people.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この机は ＿＿＿ ですね。" (Meaning: "This desk is low, isn't it?")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "ひくい" fits here because it means "low, short" in the context of: "This desk is low, isn't it?". "低い" represents "low; short (height); humble (voice)".