Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Make" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "make", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
間違える
まちがえる (machigaeru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
努力する
どりょくする (doryoku suru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "make" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 間違える and 努力する.
In Japanese, 間違える (まちがえる (machigaeru)) is typically associated with "to make a mistake, to err" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used when one makes an error, often unintentionally. It can be for misremembering, miscalculating, etc..
On the other hand, 努力する (どりょくする (doryoku suru)) maps to "to make an effort, to strive, to endeavor" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents To put in conscious effort and hard work towards a goal, emphasizing persistence and dedication. Often used for achieving difficult objectives like passing an exam or mastering a skill.. A literal translation of "make" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "間違える"
住所を間違えて、違う場所に行ってしまった。
I went to the wrong place because I made a mistake with the address.
Bilingual Context for "努力する"
夢を叶えるために、毎日努力しています。
I make an effort every day to achieve my dream.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "住所を間違えて、違う場所に行ってしまった。" (Meaning: "I went to the wrong place because I made a mistake with the address.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "間違える" fits here because it means "to make a mistake, to err" in the context of: "I went to the wrong place because I made a mistake with the address.". "努力する" represents "to make an effort, to strive, to endeavor".