Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Preparation" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "preparation", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
用意
ようい (yōi)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
支度
したく (shitaku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "preparation" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 用意 and 支度.
In Japanese, 用意 (ようい (yōi)) is typically associated with "preparation" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Often used with する to mean 'to prepare'.
On the other hand, 支度 (したく (shitaku)) maps to "preparation; arrangements" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used for preparing oneself to go out. A literal translation of "preparation" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "用意"
旅行の用意をしました。
I prepared for the trip.
Bilingual Context for "支度"
出かける前に支度をします。
I prepare before going out.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "旅行の ＿＿＿ をしました。" (Meaning: "I prepared for the trip.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "用意" fits here because it means "preparation" in the context of: "I prepared for the trip.". "支度" represents "preparation; arrangements".