Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Resistance" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "resistance", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
はんこう
はんこう (hankō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
抵抗
ていこう (teikō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "resistance" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between はんこう and 抵抗.
In Japanese, はんこう (はんこう (hankō)) is typically associated with "resistance, rebellion, insubordination" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents The act of opposing or going against authority, rules, or a common idea. Can be used for individuals or groups, often implying a challenge to the established order..
On the other hand, 抵抗 (ていこう (teikō)) maps to "resistance; opposition; drag; reluctance; electrical resistance" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to resistance, opposition, physical drag/friction, reluctance to accept something, or electrical resistance. Often used as 抵抗する. A literal translation of "resistance" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "はんこう"
彼は権威に反抗する態度をとった。
He adopted an attitude of resisting authority.
Bilingual Context for "抵抗"
空気の_______を最小限に抑えるように設計された流線型のボディが、燃費向上を実現しました。
The streamlined body designed to suppress air resistance to the minimum realized fuel efficiency improvement.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は権威に反抗する態度をとった。" (Meaning: "He adopted an attitude of resisting authority.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "はんこう" fits here because it means "resistance, rebellion, insubordination" in the context of: "He adopted an attitude of resisting authority.". "抵抗" represents "resistance; opposition; drag; reluctance; electrical resistance".