Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Real" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "real", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
不動産
ふどうさん (fudōsan)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
本物
ほんもの (honmono)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "real" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 不動産 and 本物.
In Japanese, 不動産 (ふどうさん (fudōsan)) is typically associated with "real estate; property" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to land and buildings. Often seen in business contexts related to buying, selling, or renting properties. 不動産屋.
On the other hand, 本物 (ほんもの (honmono)) maps to "real thing, genuine article" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to distinguish something authentic or original from imitations, fakes, or copies. 模造品や偽物と区別して、真正なもの、オリジナルのものを指す言葉です。. A literal translation of "real" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "不動産"
彼は不動産の仕事をしている。
He works in real estate.
Bilingual Context for "本物"
これは本物のダイヤモンドです。
This is a real diamond.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は ＿＿＿ の仕事をしている。" (Meaning: "He works in real estate.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "不動産" fits here because it means "real estate; property" in the context of: "He works in real estate.". "本物" represents "real thing, genuine article".