Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Secret" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "secret", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
機密
きみつ (kimitsu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
口裏
くちうら (kuchiura)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "secret" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 機密 and 口裏.
In Japanese, 機密 (きみつ (kimitsu)) is typically associated with "secret, classified (information)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to highly sensitive information that must be kept confidential, often in government, military, or corporate settings. 外部に漏らしてはならない重要な秘密の情報。.
On the other hand, 口裏 (くちうら (kuchiura)) maps to "secret understanding; concerted story; alibi (often in the context of conspiring)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Usually used in phrases like 口裏を合わせる. A literal translation of "secret" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "機密"
これは国家の機密情報です。
This is classified national information.
Bilingual Context for "口裏"
二人は警察に怪しまれないよう、口裏を合わせた。
The two coordinated their stories so as not to be suspected by the police.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "これは国家の ＿＿＿ 情報です。" (Meaning: "This is classified national information.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "機密" fits here because it means "secret, classified (information)" in the context of: "This is classified national information.". "口裏" represents "secret understanding; concerted story; alibi (often in the context of conspiring)".