Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Rest" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "rest", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
休む
やすむ (yasumu)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
休み
やすみ (yasumi)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "rest" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 休む and 休み.
In Japanese, 休む (やすむ (yasumu)) is typically associated with "to rest, to be absent" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Can mean to take a break.
On the other hand, 休み (やすみ (yasumi)) maps to "rest, holiday, absence" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A noun that can refer to a break, a day off from work or school, or a vacation/holiday period. It is the noun form of the verb 休む. A literal translation of "rest" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "休む"
今日は疲れたので、早く休みたいです。
I'm tired today, so I want to rest early.
Bilingual Context for "休み"
今日は会社が休みです。
Today is a holiday from work.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "今日は疲れたので、早く休みたいです。" (Meaning: "I'm tired today, so I want to rest early.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "休む" fits here because it means "to rest, to be absent" in the context of: "I'm tired today, so I want to rest early.". "休み" represents "rest, holiday, absence".