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
引っ越す
ひっこす (hikkosu)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "move" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 動く and 引っ越す.
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, 引っ越す (ひっこす (hikkosu)) maps to "to move house, to relocate" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Refers to changing one's residence. 「〜に引っ越す」. 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 "引っ越す"
来月、新しいアパートに引っ越します。
I will move to a new apartment next month.
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.". "引っ越す" represents "to move house, to relocate".