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
謹厳
きんげん (kingen)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "serious" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 真剣な and 謹厳.
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, 謹厳 (きんげん (kingen)) maps to "serious; solemn; grave; strict; austere" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Describes a person's character, attitude, or appearance as being very serious, strict, and formal, often implying a lack of humor or lightheartedness. 真面目で厳格な態度や様子を指す。. 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 "謹厳"
彼はいつも謹厳な態度で仕事に取り組んでいる。
He always approaches his work with a serious and strict attitude.
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.". "謹厳" represents "serious; solemn; grave; strict; austere".