Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Minute" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "minute", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
綿密
めんみつ (menmitsu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
微量
びりょう (biryō)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "minute" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 綿密 and 微量.
In Japanese, 綿密 (めんみつ (menmitsu)) is typically associated with "minute; scrupulous; detailed; thorough" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 計画や調査などが「非常に細かい部分まで注意深く行われる」様子を表す形容動詞。An adjective expressing that plans or investigations are carried out with extreme attention to detail..
On the other hand, 微量 (びりょう (biryō)) maps to "minute amount; trace amount" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Refers to an extremely small quantity of something, often used in scientific or medical contexts, but also in general conversation. 「ごく微量」と強調されることも多い。. A literal translation of "minute" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "綿密"
彼は綿密な計画を立ててから事業に着手した。
He started the business after making a meticulous plan.
Bilingual Context for "微量"
この薬にはごく微量の有害物質が含まれている。
This medicine contains a trace amount of harmful substances.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は ＿＿＿ な計画を立ててから事業に着手した。" (Meaning: "He started the business after making a meticulous plan.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "綿密" fits here because it means "minute; scrupulous; detailed; thorough" in the context of: "He started the business after making a meticulous plan.". "微量" represents "minute amount; trace amount".