Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Serious" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "serious", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
真面目な
まじめな (majime na)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
深刻な
しんこくな (shinkokuna)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "serious" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 真面目な and 深刻な.
In Japanese, 真面目な (まじめな (majime na)) is typically associated with "serious; diligent; earnest" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A な-adjective.
On the other hand, 深刻な (しんこくな (shinkokuna)) maps to "serious, severe, grave" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Describes a problem, situation, or condition that is grave, severe, or has serious implications, requiring serious attention.. A literal translation of "serious" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "真面目な"
彼はいつも真面目に勉強しています。
He always studies seriously.
Bilingual Context for "深刻な"
地球温暖化は深刻な問題だ。
Global warming is a serious problem.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼はいつも真面目に勉強しています。" (Meaning: "He always studies seriously.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "真面目な" fits here because it means "serious; diligent; earnest" in the context of: "He always studies seriously.". "深刻な" represents "serious, severe, grave".