Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Regret" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "regret", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
遺憾
いかん (ikan)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
悔やむ
くやむ (kuyamu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "regret" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 遺憾 and 悔やむ.
In Japanese, 遺憾 (いかん (ikan)) is typically associated with "regret; pity; deplorable; highly regrettable; unsatisfactory" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to deep regret, pity, or feeling deplorable/unsatisfactory about a bad result, accident, or diplomatic dispute.
On the other hand, 悔やむ (くやむ (kuyamu)) maps to "to regret; to mourn; to lament" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Expresses regret over past actions or inactions, or mourning for someone's death. It conveys a strong sense of sorrow or remorse.. A literal translation of "regret" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "遺憾"
政府のスポークスマンは、隣国による一方的な領海侵入に対して、「極めて_______である」との声明を発表しました。
The government spokesman released a statement saying, 'It is extremely regrettable' regarding the unilateral intrusion of territorial waters by the neighboring country.
Bilingual Context for "悔やむ"
過去の自分の選択を悔やんでも仕方がない。
It's no use regretting my past choices.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "政府のスポークスマンは、隣国による一方的な領海侵入に対して、「極めて_______である」との声明を発表しました。" (Meaning: "The government spokesman released a statement saying, 'It is extremely regrettable' regarding the unilateral intrusion of territorial waters by the neighboring country.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "遺憾" fits here because it means "regret; pity; deplorable; highly regrettable; unsatisfactory" in the context of: "The government spokesman released a statement saying, 'It is extremely regrettable' regarding the unilateral intrusion of territorial waters by the neighboring country.". "悔やむ" represents "to regret; to mourn; to lament".