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
風評
ふうひょう (fūhyō)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "rumor" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 噂 and 風評.
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, 風評 (ふうひょう (fūhyō)) maps to "rumor, reputation (often negative), public talk" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often refers to potentially damaging rumors or negative public perception, especially concerning products, places, or people, which may or may not be true. Differs from a simple 'rumor'. 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 "風評"
悪い風評が広がり、その地域の観光客が減少した。
Negative rumors spread, and the number of tourists in that area decreased.
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.". "風評" represents "rumor, reputation (often negative), public talk".