Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Natural" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "natural", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
当然
とうぜん (tōzen)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
天然
てんねん (tennen)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "natural" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 当然 and 天然.
In Japanese, 当然 (とうぜん (tōzen)) is typically associated with "natural, reasonable, of course, as a matter of course" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Indicates something is expected, right, or logical. Often used with だ/です.
On the other hand, 天然 (てんねん (tennen)) maps to "natural" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to something existing in or derived from nature, not made or caused by humankind. Often used to describe resources, food, or environments.. A literal translation of "natural" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "当然"
努力すれば成功するのは当然だ。
It's natural that you succeed if you make an effort.
Bilingual Context for "天然"
これは天然のミネラルウォーターです。
This is natural mineral water.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "努力すれば成功するのは ＿＿＿ だ。" (Meaning: "It's natural that you succeed if you make an effort.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "当然" fits here because it means "natural, reasonable, of course, as a matter of course" in the context of: "It's natural that you succeed if you make an effort.". "天然" represents "natural".