Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Satisfaction" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "satisfaction", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
満足
まんぞく (manzoku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
本望
ほんもう (honmō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "satisfaction" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 満足 and 本望.
In Japanese, 満足 (まんぞく (manzoku)) is typically associated with "satisfaction; contentment" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to being satisfied or content with a result, state, or product. Often used as a な-adjective.
On the other hand, 本望 (ほんもう (honmō)) maps to "satisfaction; heart's desire; lifelong hope; complete fulfillment" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to complete satisfaction, one's heart's desire, or lifelong hope being perfectly fulfilled, leaving absolutely no regrets. Often used as 〜なら本望だ. A literal translation of "satisfaction" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "満足"
今回のテストの結果には、十分に満足しています。
I am fully satisfied with the results of this test.
Bilingual Context for "本望"
自分が犠牲になっても愛する人を救えるなら、彼はそれで_______だと微笑みました。
Smiling, he said that if he could save his beloved even by sacrificing himself, he would be completely satisfied with that.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "今回のテストの結果には、十分に ＿＿＿ しています。" (Meaning: "I am fully satisfied with the results of this test.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "満足" fits here because it means "satisfaction; contentment" in the context of: "I am fully satisfied with the results of this test.". "本望" represents "satisfaction; heart's desire; lifelong hope; complete fulfillment".