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
改修
かいしゅう (kaishū)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "repair" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 修理 and 改修.
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, 改修 (かいしゅう (kaishū)) maps to "repair, renovation, improvement (of a building, facility, etc.)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to large-scale repairs or renovations, often for existing structures or facilities, aiming to improve or restore their function/appearance. Similar to 修理. 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 "改修"
古い駅舎が大規模に改修された。
The old station building underwent extensive renovation.
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.". "改修" represents "repair, renovation, improvement (of a building, facility, etc.)".