Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Make" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "make", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
努める
つとめる (tsutomeru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
生かす
いかす (ikasu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "make" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 努める and 生かす.
In Japanese, 努める (つとめる (tsutomeru)) is typically associated with "to make an effort; to endeavor; to strive" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used when talking about making a conscious effort or trying hard to achieve something. It implies perseverance. It is an intransitive verb in most common usages related to effort..
On the other hand, 生かす (いかす (ikasu)) maps to "to make good use of, to leverage, to keep alive" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often refers to utilizing one's skills, experience, or a resource effectively. Can also mean to save a life or let something live.. A literal translation of "make" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "努める"
彼は目標達成のために毎日努めている。
He strives every day to achieve his goal.
Bilingual Context for "生かす"
この経験を次の仕事に生かしたい。
I want to make good use of this experience in my next job.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は目標達成のために毎日努めている。" (Meaning: "He strives every day to achieve his goal.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "努める" fits here because it means "to make an effort; to endeavor; to strive" in the context of: "He strives every day to achieve his goal.". "生かす" represents "to make good use of, to leverage, to keep alive".