Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Role" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "role", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
役割
やくわり (yakuwari)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
役目
やくめ (yakume)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "role" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 役割 and 役目.
In Japanese, 役割 (やくわり (yakuwari)) is typically associated with "role; part; duty; function" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a shared role, part, duty, or function assigned in a group, organization, or society. Often used as 役割を果たす or 役割分担. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Role! Your role in this office is to support me perfectly... and your role in my LIFE is to be my beloved husband who spoils me forever! Understand?!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『やくわり（役割）よ！社内でのあんたの役割は、私を完璧にサポートすること。そして、私の人生におけるあんたの役割は、私を一生愛し、世界一甘やかす旦那になることよ！分かった？！』.
On the other hand, 役目 (やくめ (yakume)) maps to "role; duty; function" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a specific role, duty, or function that someone or something has, often implying a responsibility or a part to play. It can be used for people or things.. A literal translation of "role" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "役割"
グループワークでは、全員が自分の_______を自覚して主体的に行動することが、成功を勝ち取るための最大の秘訣です。
In group work, everyone realizing their own role and acting proactively is the biggest secret to winning success.
Bilingual Context for "役目"
会社での彼の役目は、新しいプロジェクトのリーダーです。
His role in the company is the leader of the new project.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "グループワークでは、全員が自分の_______を自覚して主体的に行動することが、成功を勝ち取るための最大の秘訣です。" (Meaning: "In group work, everyone realizing their own role and acting proactively is the biggest secret to winning success.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "役割" fits here because it means "role; part; duty; function" in the context of: "In group work, everyone realizing their own role and acting proactively is the biggest secret to winning success.". "役目" represents "role; duty; function".