Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Reason" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "reason", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
訳
わけ (wake)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
所以
ゆえん (yuen)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "reason" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 訳 and 所以.
In Japanese, 訳 (わけ (wake)) is typically associated with "reason; cause; meaning; circumstances; result" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Explains the reason or circumstances behind something. Often used in phrases like 「〜わけだ」.
On the other hand, 所以 (ゆえん (yuen)) maps to "reason; cause; origin; source; the reason why..." (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents A formal and somewhat literary term. Often used in the pattern 「〜の所以」 or 「〜する所以」 to explain the fundamental reason, origin, or essence of something, implying 'the very reason why something is as it is'.. A literal translation of "reason" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "訳"
彼が遅れたのは電車が遅れた訳です。
The reason he was late was that the train was delayed.
Bilingual Context for "所以"
彼が成功した所以は、たゆまぬ努力にあった。
The reason he succeeded was his tireless effort.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼が遅れたのは電車が遅れた ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "The reason he was late was that the train was delayed.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "訳" fits here because it means "reason; cause; meaning; circumstances; result" in the context of: "The reason he was late was that the train was delayed.". "所以" represents "reason; cause; origin; source; the reason why...".