Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Praise" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "praise", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
褒める
ほめる (homeru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
称揚
しょうよう (shōyō)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "praise" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 褒める and 称揚.
In Japanese, 褒める (ほめる (homeru)) is typically associated with "to praise, to compliment" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Transitive verb. Used to express admiration or approval for someone's actions, qualities, or achievements. Opposite of 叱る.
On the other hand, 称揚 (しょうよう (shōyō)) maps to "praise, extol, laud, commend" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents A somewhat formal and often literary term for highly praising or glorifying someone/something. 「功績を称揚する」のように使われます。. A literal translation of "praise" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "褒める"
先生が私の絵を褒めてくれました。
The teacher praised my painting for me.
Bilingual Context for "称揚"
彼の長年の功績は、広く称揚されるべきだ。
His long years of achievements should be widely praised.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "先生が私の絵を褒めてくれました。" (Meaning: "The teacher praised my painting for me.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "褒める" fits here because it means "to praise, to compliment" in the context of: "The teacher praised my painting for me.". "称揚" represents "praise, extol, laud, commend".