Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Secret" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "secret", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
秘密
ひみつ (himitsu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
かくし味
かくしあじ (kakushiaji)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "secret" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 秘密 and かくし味.
In Japanese, 秘密 (ひみつ (himitsu)) is typically associated with "secret" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a secret, confidentiality, or privacy. Often used with 秘密にする.
On the other hand, かくし味 (かくしあじ (kakushiaji)) maps to "secret ingredient; hidden flavor; subtle seasoning" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A specific ingredient added in small amounts to enhance the flavor of a dish without being dominant or obvious. Can also be used metaphorically for a subtle but important element.. A literal translation of "secret" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "秘密"
この話は、絶対に二人だけの秘密にしてください。
Please make sure to keep this story an absolute secret between the two of us.
Bilingual Context for "かくし味"
この料理のかくし味は醤油です。
The secret ingredient in this dish is soy sauce.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この話は、絶対に二人だけの ＿＿＿ にしてください。" (Meaning: "Please make sure to keep this story an absolute secret between the two of us.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "秘密" fits here because it means "secret" in the context of: "Please make sure to keep this story an absolute secret between the two of us.". "かくし味" represents "secret ingredient; hidden flavor; subtle seasoning".