Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Service" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "service", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
サービス
サービス (saabisu)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
奉仕
ほうし (houshi)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "service" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between サービス and 奉仕.
In Japanese, サービス (サービス (saabisu)) is typically associated with "service; free of charge" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A loanword from English 'service'. Can refer to customer service or something provided free of charge.
On the other hand, 奉仕 (ほうし (houshi)) maps to "service; contribution; dedication; volunteer work" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Implies selfless service or dedication, often for a greater good, community, or even a deity. Can refer to volunteer work where no payment is expected.. A literal translation of "service" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "サービス"
この店のサービスはとても丁寧です。
The service at this shop is very polite.
Bilingual Context for "奉仕"
彼は長年、地域社会のために奉仕活動を続けている。
He has been engaged in volunteer work for the community for many years.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この店の ＿＿＿ はとても丁寧です。" (Meaning: "The service at this shop is very polite.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "サービス" fits here because it means "service; free of charge" in the context of: "The service at this shop is very polite.". "奉仕" represents "service; contribution; dedication; volunteer work".