Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Obedient" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "obedient", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
素直
すなお (sunao)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
すなお
すなお (sunao)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "obedient" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 素直 and すなお.
In Japanese, 素直 (すなお (sunao)) is typically associated with "obedient; meek; gentle; honest; frank; straightforward" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Describes someone who is honest, frank, and accepts things or advice without resistance. It often implies innocence or compliance. For example, 素直な子供.
On the other hand, すなお (すなお (sunao)) maps to "obedient, honest, gentle, frank" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used to describe someone's personality or attitude. It implies not being deceptive or stubborn.. A literal translation of "obedient" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "素直"
彼女はとても素直な性格で、誰からも好かれます。
She has a very honest and straightforward personality, and everyone likes her.
Bilingual Context for "すなお"
彼女はいつも素直で、自分の気持ちを正直に話します。
She is always honest and speaks her feelings frankly.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼女はとても ＿＿＿ な性格で、誰からも好かれます。" (Meaning: "She has a very honest and straightforward personality, and everyone likes her.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "素直" fits here because it means "obedient; meek; gentle; honest; frank; straightforward" in the context of: "She has a very honest and straightforward personality, and everyone likes her.". "すなお" represents "obedient, honest, gentle, frank".