Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Reward" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "reward", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
労う
ねぎらう (negirau)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
報償
ほうしょう (hōshō)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "reward" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 労う and 報償.
In Japanese, 労う (ねぎらう (negirau)) is typically associated with "to reward (for effort); to express gratitude for" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 相手の努力や苦労を認め、「感謝や慰労の気持ちを伝える」際に使われます。Used when acknowledging someone's efforts or hardships and 'expressing feelings of gratitude or appreciation'..
On the other hand, 報償 (ほうしょう (hōshō)) maps to "reward; compensation; remuneration (for services or damage)" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Formal term for a reward given for service, achievement, or as compensation for loss/damage. 労苦や功績に対する報酬、または損害に対する償いを指す、やや堅い表現。. A literal translation of "reward" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "労う"
上司は部下の努力を労って、慰労会を開いた。
The boss praised his subordinates' efforts and held a party to express his appreciation.
Bilingual Context for "報償"
警察は犯人逮捕に協力した市民に報償を支払った。
The police paid a reward to the citizen who cooperated in arresting the criminal.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "上司は部下の努力を労って、慰労会を開いた。" (Meaning: "The boss praised his subordinates' efforts and held a party to express his appreciation.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "労う" fits here because it means "to reward (for effort); to express gratitude for" in the context of: "The boss praised his subordinates' efforts and held a party to express his appreciation.". "報償" represents "reward; compensation; remuneration (for services or damage)".