Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Other" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "other", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
他方
たほう (tahō)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
翻って
ひるがえって (hirugaette)
C1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "other" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 他方 and 翻って.
In Japanese, 他方 (たほう (tahō)) is typically associated with "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..
On the other hand, 翻って (ひるがえって (hirugaette)) maps to "on the other hand" (Syllabus Level: C1) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C1 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "other" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "翻って"
私は翻ってに興味があります。
I am interested in on the other hand.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は理論に強い。 ＿＿＿ 、実践は苦手だ。" (Meaning: "He is strong in theory. On the other hand, he is not good at practical application.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "他方" fits here because it means "on the other hand; meanwhile; another side" in the context of: "He is strong in theory. On the other hand, he is not good at practical application.". "翻って" represents "on the other hand".