Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Reach" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "reach", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
達する
たっする (tassuru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
行き詰まる
いきづまる (ikizumaru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "reach" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 達する and 行き詰まる.
In Japanese, 達する (たっする (tassuru)) is typically associated with "to reach; to arrive at; to attain" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Often used to express reaching a goal, a certain level, or a destination.
On the other hand, 行き詰まる (いきづまる (ikizumaru)) maps to "to reach a deadlock, to be at a standstill, to be stuck" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Implies being unable to progress further due to difficulties, problems, or a lack of solutions. Can apply to negotiations, research, or personal situations. 計画が行き詰まる. A literal translation of "reach" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "達する"
彼はついに目標に達した。
He finally reached his goal.
Bilingual Context for "行き詰まる"
交渉が行き詰まってしまい、結論が出ない。
The negotiations reached a deadlock, and no conclusion could be reached.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼はついに目標に達した。" (Meaning: "He finally reached his goal.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "達する" fits here because it means "to reach; to arrive at; to attain" in the context of: "He finally reached his goal.". "行き詰まる" represents "to reach a deadlock, to be at a standstill, to be stuck".