Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Setback" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "setback", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
挫折
ざせつ (zasetsu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
蹉跌
さてつ (satetsu)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "setback" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 挫折 and 蹉跌.
In Japanese, 挫折 (ざせつ (zasetsu)) is typically associated with "setback, failure, discouragement" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to experiencing a failure or setback that causes one to give up or feel discouraged. Often used with する.
On the other hand, 蹉跌 (さてつ (satetsu)) maps to "setback, stumble, failure, misstep" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Describes a temporary failure or difficulty encountered during a process, often implying a pause or deviation from a smooth path rather than a complete collapse. 計画や目標の途中で起こる一時的なつまずきや失敗を指す。. A literal translation of "setback" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "挫折"
彼は度重なる挫折にも負けず、夢を追い続けた。
He continued to pursue his dream, undeterred by repeated setbacks.
Bilingual Context for "蹉跌"
多くの蹉跌を経験しながらも、彼は夢を諦めなかった。
Despite experiencing many setbacks, he didn't give up on his dream.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は度重なる ＿＿＿ にも負けず、夢を追い続けた。" (Meaning: "He continued to pursue his dream, undeterred by repeated setbacks.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "挫折" fits here because it means "setback, failure, discouragement" in the context of: "He continued to pursue his dream, undeterred by repeated setbacks.". "蹉跌" represents "setback, stumble, failure, misstep".