Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Other" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "other", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
以外
いがい (igai)
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 以外 and 他方.
In Japanese, 以外 (いがい (igai)) is typically associated with "other than, except for, besides" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to exclude something from a general statement. Often follows a noun or a phrase ending in の to indicate 'all except X'..
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 "以外"
彼は日本語以外に英語も話せる。
Besides Japanese, he can also speak English.
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: "彼は日本語 ＿＿＿ に英語も話せる。" (Meaning: "Besides Japanese, he can also speak English.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "以外" fits here because it means "other than, except for, besides" in the context of: "Besides Japanese, he can also speak English.". "他方" represents "on the other hand; meanwhile; another side".