Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Push" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "push", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
おす
おす (osu)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
押し通す
おしとおす (oshitoosu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "push" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between おす and 押し通す.
In Japanese, おす (おす (osu)) is typically associated with "to push" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Refers to the physical act of pushing. Often seen on doors.
On the other hand, 押し通す (おしとおす (oshitoosu)) maps to "to push through; to carry through to the end; to insist on (one's opinion)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Similar to 押し切る, but often emphasizes seeing something through to completion or maintaining one's position despite obstacles or opposition.. A literal translation of "push" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "おす"
ドアを押してください。
Please push the door.
Bilingual Context for "押し通す"
どんなに困難でも、自分の信念を押し通すことが大切だ。
It's important to stick to your beliefs, no matter how difficult.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "ドアを押してください。" (Meaning: "Please push the door.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "おす" fits here because it means "to push" in the context of: "Please push the door.". "押し通す" represents "to push through; to carry through to the end; to insist on (one's opinion)".