Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Nature" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "nature", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
生来
せいらい (seirai)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
性即理
せいそくり (seisokuri)
C2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "nature" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 生来 and 性即理.
In Japanese, 生来 (せいらい (seirai)) is typically associated with "by nature, inherent, congenital" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Describes qualities or characteristics that someone or something has had since birth or from the very beginning. Similar to 「生まれつき.
On the other hand, 性即理 (せいそくり (seisokuri)) maps to "nature is principle" (Syllabus Level: C2) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C2 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "nature" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "生来"
彼女は生来の正直者だ。
She is honest by nature.
Bilingual Context for "性即理"
私は性即理に興味があります。
I am interested in nature is principle.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼女は ＿＿＿ の正直者だ。" (Meaning: "She is honest by nature.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "生来" fits here because it means "by nature, inherent, congenital" in the context of: "She is honest by nature.". "性即理" represents "nature is principle".