Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Management" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "management", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
経営
けいえい (keiei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
運営
うんえい (unei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "management" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 経営 and 運営.
In Japanese, 経営 (けいえい (keiei)) is typically associated with "management; administration; running (a business)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to running, managing, or administering a business, company, or store. Can be used with する as a verb.
On the other hand, 運営 (うんえい (unei)) maps to "management, operation, administration" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to the management or running of organizations, facilities, services, or projects. It implies the practical aspects of keeping something going smoothly.. A literal translation of "management" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "経営"
祖父は長年、地元で小さなスーパーを経営していました。
My grandfather ran a small local supermarket for many years.
Bilingual Context for "運営"
この図書館は市のボランティアによって運営されています。
This library is operated by city volunteers.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "祖父は長年、地元で小さなスーパーを ＿＿＿ していました。" (Meaning: "My grandfather ran a small local supermarket for many years.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "経営" fits here because it means "management; administration; running (a business)" in the context of: "My grandfather ran a small local supermarket for many years.". "運営" represents "management, operation, administration".