Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Precious" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "precious", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
貴重
きちょう (kichō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
貴重な
きちょうな (kichōna)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "precious" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 貴重 and 貴重な.
In Japanese, 貴重 (きちょう (kichō)) is typically associated with "precious; valuable" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to something being extremely precious, valuable, or irreplaceable. Often used with 貴重な体験.
On the other hand, 貴重な (きちょうな (kichōna)) maps to "precious; valuable; important" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to describe something that is highly valued, rare, or important, often for sentimental or financial reasons.. A literal translation of "precious" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "貴重"
留学を通して、とても貴重な経験をすることができました。
Through studying abroad, I was able to have a very precious experience.
Bilingual Context for "貴重な"
この家族の写真は私にとってとても貴重なものです。
This family photo is very precious to me.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "留学を通して、とても ＿＿＿ な経験をすることができました。" (Meaning: "Through studying abroad, I was able to have a very precious experience.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "貴重" fits here because it means "precious; valuable" in the context of: "Through studying abroad, I was able to have a very precious experience.". "貴重な" represents "precious; valuable; important".