Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Pass" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "pass", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
経つ
たつ (tatsu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
受かる
うかる (ukaru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "pass" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 経つ and 受かる.
In Japanese, 経つ (たつ (tatsu)) is typically associated with "to pass (of time)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents 時間が「経過する」ことを表す自動詞です。特定の時点からどれくらいの時間が経過したかを述べるときに用いられます。/ An intransitive verb indicating that time 'passes'. Used to state how much time has passed since a specific point..
On the other hand, 受かる (うかる (ukaru)) maps to "to pass (an exam); to be accepted (e.g., into a school)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used for exams, tests, or applications. It implies success in a selection process. The formal/polite form is 受かります. A literal translation of "pass" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "経つ"
日本に来てからもう5年が経った。
It has already been 5 years since I came to Japan.
Bilingual Context for "受かる"
JLPT N3の試験に受かるために、毎日勉強しています。
I'm studying every day to pass the JLPT N3 exam.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "日本に来てからもう5年が経った。" (Meaning: "It has already been 5 years since I came to Japan.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "経つ" fits here because it means "to pass (of time)" in the context of: "It has already been 5 years since I came to Japan.". "受かる" represents "to pass (an exam); to be accepted (e.g., into a school)".