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
重大
じゅうだい (jūdai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "serious" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 真面目な and 重大.
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, 重大 (じゅうだい (jūdai)) maps to "Serious, grave, important, significant" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Emphasizes the importance, gravity, or severity of a matter. Often used for problems, decisions, news. Can be used with な as an adjective. 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 "重大"
これは会社にとって重大な問題です。
This is a serious problem for the company.
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.". "重大" represents "Serious, grave, important, significant".