Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Obstinacy" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "obstinacy", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
強情
ごうじょう (gōjō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
頑迷
がんめい (ganmei)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "obstinacy" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 強情 and 頑迷.
In Japanese, 強情 (ごうじょう (gōjō)) is typically associated with "obstinacy; stubbornness; headstrong; pigheadedness" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a stubborn, obstinate, or headstrong attitude where someone stubbornly refuses to change their mind or give in. Often used as 強情を張る.
On the other hand, 頑迷 (がんめい (ganmei)) maps to "obstinacy; stubbornness; pigheadedness; bigotry" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Describes a person who is extremely stubborn and unwilling to change their mind or accept new ideas, often with negative connotations. Can be used for individuals or groups.. A literal translation of "obstinacy" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "強情"
彼は非常に_______な性格のため、一度決めたら他人のアドバイスには一切耳を貸しません。
Because he has a very stubborn personality, once he decides, he never lends an ear to others' advice.
Bilingual Context for "頑迷"
彼の頑迷な態度が会議の進行を妨げた。
His obstinate attitude hindered the progress of the meeting.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は非常に_______な性格のため、一度決めたら他人のアドバイスには一切耳を貸しません。" (Meaning: "Because he has a very stubborn personality, once he decides, he never lends an ear to others' advice.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "強情" fits here because it means "obstinacy; stubbornness; headstrong; pigheadedness" in the context of: "Because he has a very stubborn personality, once he decides, he never lends an ear to others' advice.". "頑迷" represents "obstinacy; stubbornness; pigheadedness; bigotry".