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
移動する
いどうする (idou suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "move" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 動く and 移動する.
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, 移動する (いどうする (idou suru)) maps to "to move, to transfer" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to movement from one place to another, often of people or objects. More formal than 「動く. 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 "移動する"
次の会議室に移動してください。
Please move to the next meeting room.
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.". "移動する" represents "to move, to transfer".