Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Rumor" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "rumor", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
噂
うわさ (uwasa)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
うわさ
うわさ (uwasa)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "rumor" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 噂 and うわさ.
In Japanese, 噂 (うわさ (uwasa)) is typically associated with "rumor; gossip" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a rumor, gossip, or talk of the town.
On the other hand, うわさ (うわさ (uwasa)) maps to "rumor; gossip" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents English: "うわさ" refers to unconfirmed information or news spread among people. It can be neutral but often carries a negative or speculative connotation. It is a noun. Often used with verbs like 「～が広まる」. A literal translation of "rumor" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "噂"
人の噂を簡単に信じてはいけません。
You must not believe other people's rumors easily.
Bilingual Context for "うわさ"
彼の転勤のうわさが社内で広まっている。
Rumors about his transfer are spreading throughout the company.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "人の ＿＿＿ を簡単に信じてはいけません。" (Meaning: "You must not believe other people's rumors easily.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "噂" fits here because it means "rumor; gossip" in the context of: "You must not believe other people's rumors easily.". "うわさ" represents "rumor; gossip".