Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Means" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "means", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
〜によって
〜によって (ni yotte)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
手立て
てだて (tedate)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "means" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 〜によって and 手立て.
In Japanese, 〜によって (〜によって (ni yotte)) is typically associated with "by (means of), due to, depending on" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Can express the method/means, the cause/reason, or that something varies based on a condition. Often used in formal or passive voice sentences..
On the other hand, 手立て (てだて (tedate)) maps to "means, way, measure, step, plan" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to a specific method, plan, or measure devised to achieve a goal, solve a problem, or cope with a situation. Often implies the act of seeking or finding a solution.. A literal translation of "means" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "〜によって"
この絵は有名な画家によって描かれました。
This painting was drawn by a famous artist.
Bilingual Context for "手立て"
何か良い解決の手立てはないものか。
Isn't there some good means of resolving this?
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この絵は有名な画家によって描かれました。" (Meaning: "This painting was drawn by a famous artist.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "〜によって" fits here because it means "by (means of), due to, depending on" in the context of: "This painting was drawn by a famous artist.". "手立て" represents "means, way, measure, step, plan".