Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Read" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "read", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
読む
よむ (yomu)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
読み取る
よみとる (yomitoru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "read" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 読む and 読み取る.
In Japanese, 読む (よむ (yomu)) is typically associated with "to read" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Used for written materials. Polite form is 読みます.
On the other hand, 読み取る (よみとる (yomitoru)) maps to "to read (e.g. data); to understand (from context/appearance)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 情報や意図などを、表面的なものだけでなく、深く理解して把握する際に使う。Used when understanding and grasping information or intentions not just superficially, but deeply.. A literal translation of "read" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "読む"
本を読みます。
I read a book.
Bilingual Context for "読み取る"
彼の表情から、不満を読み取ることができた。
I could read his dissatisfaction from his expression.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "本を読みます。" (Meaning: "I read a book.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "読む" fits here because it means "to read" in the context of: "I read a book.". "読み取る" represents "to read (e.g. data); to understand (from context/appearance)".