Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Put" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "put", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
整える
ととのえる (totonoeru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
打ち出す
うちだす (uchidasu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "put" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 整える and 打ち出す.
In Japanese, 整える (ととのえる (totonoeru)) is typically associated with "to put in order, to arrange, to prepare, to get ready, to adjust" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents 乱れたものをきちんと「整理する」、必要なものを「準備する」という意味の他動詞です。/ A transitive verb meaning to 'organize' something messy, or to 'prepare' necessary items..
On the other hand, 打ち出す (うちだす (uchidasu)) maps to "to put forward (a plan), to launch, to announce" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Primarily used when presenting or proposing a new policy, plan, strategy, or idea to the public or a group. Can also mean to hammer out or shape metal.. A literal translation of "put" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "整える"
出かける前に、身支度を整えた。
I got myself ready before going out.
Bilingual Context for "打ち出す"
会社は来年度の新しい事業計画を打ち出した。
The company launched its new business plan for the next fiscal year.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "出かける前に、身支度を整えた。" (Meaning: "I got myself ready before going out.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "整える" fits here because it means "to put in order, to arrange, to prepare, to get ready, to adjust" in the context of: "I got myself ready before going out.". "打ち出す" represents "to put forward (a plan), to launch, to announce".