Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Other" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "other", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
この間
このあいだ (konoaida)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
他方
たほう (tahō)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "other" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between この間 and 他方.
In Japanese, この間 (このあいだ (konoaida)) is typically associated with "the other day, recently" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Time expression. Refers to a recent, but not precisely specified, point in the past. It suggests 'a few days ago' or 'not long ago'..
On the other hand, 他方 (たほう (tahō)) maps to "on the other hand; meanwhile; another side" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used to introduce a contrasting or different aspect, similar to "on the other hand" or "meanwhile" in English. Often used in formal writing or speeches.. A literal translation of "other" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "この間"
この間、映画館で田中さんに会った。
I met Mr. Tanaka at the movie theater the other day.
Bilingual Context for "他方"
彼は理論に強い。他方、実践は苦手だ。
He is strong in theory. On the other hand, he is not good at practical application.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 、映画館で田中さんに会った。" (Meaning: "I met Mr. Tanaka at the movie theater the other day.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "この間" fits here because it means "the other day, recently" in the context of: "I met Mr. Tanaka at the movie theater the other day.". "他方" represents "on the other hand; meanwhile; another side".