Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Repair" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "repair", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
修理
しゅうり (shuuri)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
修復
しゅうふく (shūfuku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "repair" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 修理 and 修復.
In Japanese, 修理 (しゅうり (shuuri)) is typically associated with "repair, mending, servicing" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Often used with する.
On the other hand, 修復 (しゅうふく (shūfuku)) maps to "repair, restoration" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used for repairing damaged cultural assets, buildings, or old items, implying a return to their original or proper state, rather than just a simple fix. A literal translation of "repair" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "修理"
このテレビは壊れているので、修理が必要です。
This TV is broken, so it needs repair.
Bilingual Context for "修復"
古い絵画を修復する。
To restore an old painting.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "このテレビは壊れているので、 ＿＿＿ が必要です。" (Meaning: "This TV is broken, so it needs repair.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "修理" fits here because it means "repair, mending, servicing" in the context of: "This TV is broken, so it needs repair.". "修復" represents "repair, restoration".