Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Rule" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "rule", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
決まり
きまり (kimari)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
司る
つかさどる (tsukasadoru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "rule" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 決まり and 司る.
In Japanese, 決まり (きまり (kimari)) is typically associated with "rule, custom, convention, decision" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to an established rule, custom, or a decision that has been made. Often implies something fixed or agreed upon..
On the other hand, 司る (つかさどる (tsukasadoru)) maps to "to rule, to govern, to manage, to take charge of" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used formally to describe taking responsibility for or controlling something, often in a position of authority. 日本語では、責任ある立場から物事を管理・統制する際に使われる、やや硬い表現です。. A literal translation of "rule" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "決まり"
この会社の決まりでは、喫煙は禁止されています。
Smoking is prohibited by this company's rules.
Bilingual Context for "司る"
彼はその国の政治を司っている。
He governs the politics of that country.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この会社の ＿＿＿ では、喫煙は禁止されています。" (Meaning: "Smoking is prohibited by this company's rules.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "決まり" fits here because it means "rule, custom, convention, decision" in the context of: "Smoking is prohibited by this company's rules.". "司る" represents "to rule, to govern, to manage, to take charge of".