Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Self restraint" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "self restraint", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
自重
じちょう (jichō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
自粛
じしゅく (jishuku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "self restraint" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 自重 and 自粛.
In Japanese, 自重 (じちょう (jichō)) is typically associated with "self-restraint; prudence; caution; dead weight (physical)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to self-restraint, prudence, caution, or behaving carefully to avoid trouble. Also means physical dead weight of an object/body. Often used as 自重する.
On the other hand, 自粛 (じしゅく (jishuku)) maps to "self-restraint, self-control, voluntarily refraining" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents The act of voluntarily refraining from certain activities or behaviors, often in consideration of public sentiment or a specific situation. A literal translation of "self restraint" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "自重"
クレーン車を使用する際は、吊り上げる荷物の重量だけでなく、クレーン自体の_______も考慮に入れる必要があります。
When using a crane truck, it is necessary to take into consideration not only the weight of the load to be lifted, but also the dead weight of the crane itself.
Bilingual Context for "自粛"
イベントは、コロナウイルスの感染拡大を受けて自粛された。
The event was voluntarily canceled (self-restrained) due to the spread of the coronavirus.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "クレーン車を使用する際は、吊り上げる荷物の重量だけでなく、クレーン自体の_______も考慮に入れる必要があります。" (Meaning: "When using a crane truck, it is necessary to take into consideration not only the weight of the load to be lifted, but also the dead weight of the crane itself.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "自重" fits here because it means "self-restraint; prudence; caution; dead weight (physical)" in the context of: "When using a crane truck, it is necessary to take into consideration not only the weight of the load to be lifted, but also the dead weight of the crane itself.". "自粛" represents "self-restraint, self-control, voluntarily refraining".