Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Praise" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "praise", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
称賛
しょうさん (shōsan)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
もてはやす
もてはやす (motehayasu)
C1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "praise" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 称賛 and もてはやす.
In Japanese, 称賛 (しょうさん (shōsan)) is typically associated with "praise, admiration, commendation" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 素晴らしい行動や功績に対して、高く評価し、ほめたたえること。公式な場面や、尊敬の念を込めて使われることが多いです。/ To highly evaluate and praise wonderful actions or achievements. Often used in formal settings or with a sense of respect..
On the other hand, もてはやす (もてはやす (motehayasu)) maps to "to praise excessively" (Syllabus Level: C1) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C1 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "praise" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "称賛"
彼の勇気ある行動は、多くの人々から称賛された。
His courageous actions were praised by many people.
Bilingual Context for "もてはやす"
毎日、日本語を練習するためにもてはやす。
Every day, I praise excessively to practice Japanese.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の勇気ある行動は、多くの人々から ＿＿＿ された。" (Meaning: "His courageous actions were praised by many people.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "称賛" fits here because it means "praise, admiration, commendation" in the context of: "His courageous actions were praised by many people.". "もてはやす" represents "to praise excessively".