Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Move" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "move", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
動く
うごく (ugoku)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
動かす
うごかす (ugokasu)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "move" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 動く and 動かす.
In Japanese, 動く (うごく (ugoku)) is typically associated with "to move" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Refers to something or someone changing position, functioning, or operating. Can be intransitive.
On the other hand, 動かす (うごかす (ugokasu)) maps to "to move, to operate (transitive)" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents To cause something to move or to operate a machine. It requires a subject performing the action on an object.. A literal translation of "move" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "動く"
この機械はもう動きません。
This machine doesn't move anymore.
Bilingual Context for "動かす"
この機械は指で簡単に動かせます。
You can easily operate this machine with your finger.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この機械はもう動きません。" (Meaning: "This machine doesn't move anymore.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "動く" fits here because it means "to move" in the context of: "This machine doesn't move anymore.". "動かす" represents "to move, to operate (transitive)".