Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Repair" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "repair", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
修理する
しゅうりする (shuurisuru)
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 修理する and 改修.
In Japanese, 修理する (しゅうりする (shuurisuru)) is typically associated with "to repair, to fix" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Typically used for fixing objects like machines, vehicles, or broken household items..
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 "修理する"
壊れた時計を修理しました。
I repaired the broken watch.
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: "壊れた時計を修理しました。" (Meaning: "I repaired the broken watch.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "修理する" fits here because it means "to repair, to fix" in the context of: "I repaired the broken watch.". "改修" represents "repair, renovation, improvement (of a building, facility, etc.)".