Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Rejection" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "rejection", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
拒否
きょひ (kyohi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
却下
きゃっか (kyakka)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "rejection" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 拒否 and 却下.
In Japanese, 拒否 (きょひ (kyohi)) is typically associated with "rejection, refusal" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used for flat out refusing or rejecting something, often a request, offer, or proposal. Implies a firm 'no'. Can be a noun or used with する as a verb..
On the other hand, 却下 (きゃっか (kyakka)) maps to "rejection, dismissal" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used when an application, proposal, or request is formally refused, often by an authority.. A literal translation of "rejection" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "拒否"
その計画は多数の拒否にあった。
The plan met with many rejections.
Bilingual Context for "却下"
彼のビザ申請は書類不備のため却下された。
His visa application was rejected due to incomplete documents.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その計画は多数の ＿＿＿ にあった。" (Meaning: "The plan met with many rejections.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "拒否" fits here because it means "rejection, refusal" in the context of: "The plan met with many rejections.". "却下" represents "rejection, dismissal".