Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Serious" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "serious", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
まじめな
まじめな (majime na)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
深刻
しんこく (shinkoku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "serious" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between まじめな and 深刻.
In Japanese, まじめな (まじめな (majime na)) is typically associated with "serious, diligent, earnest, honest" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents A な-adjective. Describes someone's character or attitude as sincere, earnest, or hardworking. Generally used positively to commend a person's responsible nature..
On the other hand, 深刻 (しんこく (shinkoku)) maps to "serious, severe, grave, acute" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes a situation, problem, or condition that is grave, critical, or of great concern. Often used as a な-adjective. A literal translation of "serious" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "まじめな"
彼はいつもまじめに仕事に取り組んでいる。
He always approaches his work diligently.
Bilingual Context for "深刻"
地球温暖化は人類にとって深刻な問題だ。
Global warming is a serious problem for humanity.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼はいつもまじめに仕事に取り組んでいる。" (Meaning: "He always approaches his work diligently.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "まじめな" fits here because it means "serious, diligent, earnest, honest" in the context of: "He always approaches his work diligently.". "深刻" represents "serious, severe, grave, acute".