Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Prevention" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "prevention", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
予防
よぼう (yobou)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
防止
ぼうし (bōshi)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "prevention" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 予防 and 防止.
In Japanese, 予防 (よぼう (yobou)) is typically associated with "prevention; precaution" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to describe taking measures *before* something undesirable.
On the other hand, 防止 (ぼうし (bōshi)) maps to "prevention; to prevent" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents この言葉は、事故、災害、病気などのネガティブな結果を避けるための対策や行動について話す際、比較的フォーマルな文脈で使われます。名詞（防止策）としても、動詞（防止する）としても機能します。/ This word is often used in more formal contexts when discussing measures or actions taken to avoid negative outcomes, such as accidents, disasters, or diseases. It can function as a noun. A literal translation of "prevention" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "予防"
インフルエンザの予防接種を受けました。
I got a flu shot for prevention.
Bilingual Context for "防止"
事故の防止のために、シートベルトを締めましょう。
Let's fasten our seatbelts to prevent accidents.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "インフルエンザの ＿＿＿ 接種を受けました。" (Meaning: "I got a flu shot for prevention.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "予防" fits here because it means "prevention; precaution" in the context of: "I got a flu shot for prevention.". "防止" represents "prevention; to prevent".