Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Serious" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "serious", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
真剣
しんけん (shinken)
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 真剣 and 深刻.
In Japanese, 真剣 (しんけん (shinken)) is typically associated with "serious; earnest; playing for keeps; real sword style" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to acting serious, earnest, or playing for keeps with absolute concentration.
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 "真剣"
将来の進路について両親と_______に話し合った結果、彼は海外の大学へ留学することを決意しました。
As a result of discussing his future career seriously with his parents, he resolved to study abroad at a foreign university.
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: "将来の進路について両親と_______に話し合った結果、彼は海外の大学へ留学することを決意しました。" (Meaning: "As a result of discussing his future career seriously with his parents, he resolved to study abroad at a foreign university.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "真剣" fits here because it means "serious; earnest; playing for keeps; real sword style" in the context of: "As a result of discussing his future career seriously with his parents, he resolved to study abroad at a foreign university.". "深刻" represents "serious, severe, grave, acute".