Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Scold" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "scold", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
呵する
かする (kasuru)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
なじる
なじる (najiru)
C1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "scold" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 呵する and なじる.
In Japanese, 呵する (かする (kasuru)) is typically associated with "to scold, to blame, to criticize severely, to reprimand" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents A somewhat formal or strong word for severely reprimanding or criticizing someone. Often used in written contexts or formal speech, implying a stern warning or condemnation..
On the other hand, なじる (なじる (najiru)) maps to "scold, rebuke" (Syllabus Level: C1) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C1 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "scold" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "呵する"
監督は選手の不注意なプレーを厳しく呵した。
The coach severely reprimanded the player for their careless play.
Bilingual Context for "なじる"
私はなじるに興味があります。
I am interested in scold, rebuke.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "監督は選手の不注意なプレーを厳しく呵した。" (Meaning: "The coach severely reprimanded the player for their careless play.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "呵する" fits here because it means "to scold, to blame, to criticize severely, to reprimand" in the context of: "The coach severely reprimanded the player for their careless play.". "なじる" represents "scold, rebuke".