Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Serious" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "serious", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
真剣な
しんけんな (shinken na)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
まじめな
まじめな (majime na)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "serious" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 真剣な and まじめな.
In Japanese, 真剣な (しんけんな (shinken na)) is typically associated with "serious, earnest" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Describes someone's attitude, effort, or a situation that requires seriousness. Often used with 「に」 as an adverb.
On the other hand, まじめな (まじめな (majime na)) maps to "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.. A literal translation of "serious" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "真剣な"
彼はいつも仕事に真剣に取り組んでいる。
He always tackles his work seriously.
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.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼はいつも仕事に真剣に取り組んでいる。" (Meaning: "He always tackles his work seriously.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "真剣な" fits here because it means "serious, earnest" in the context of: "He always tackles his work seriously.". "まじめな" represents "serious, diligent, earnest, honest".