Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Number" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "number", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
数字
すうじ (sūji)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
人数
にんずう (ninzū)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "number" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 数字 and 人数.
In Japanese, 数字 (すうじ (sūji)) is typically associated with "number, numeral" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents A character or symbol representing a number.
On the other hand, 人数 (にんずう (ninzū)) maps to "number of people" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers specifically to the count of individuals. Often used when inquiring about or stating the quantity of people present or required.. A literal translation of "number" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "数字"
電話番号の数字を教えてください。
Please tell me the numbers of your phone number.
Bilingual Context for "人数"
会議の人数は何人ですか？
What is the number of people for the meeting?
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "電話番号の ＿＿＿ を教えてください。" (Meaning: "Please tell me the numbers of your phone number.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "数字" fits here because it means "number, numeral" in the context of: "Please tell me the numbers of your phone number.". "人数" represents "number of people".