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
押す
おす (osu)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "push" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between おす and 押す.
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, 押す (おす (osu)) maps to "to push" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used for pushing objects, buttons, or crowds. 対義語は「引く」です。. 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 "押す"
ドアをゆっくり押してください。
Please push the door slowly.
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.". "押す" represents "to push".