Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Setback" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "setback", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
頓挫
とんざ (tonza)
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 頓挫 and 蹉跌.
In Japanese, 頓挫 (とんざ (tonza)) is typically associated with "setback, deadlock, frustration (of a plan)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 計画や事業などが途中で障害に遭い、行き詰まる、失敗するという意味で使われます。.
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 "頓挫"
資金不足で計画が頓挫してしまった。
The plan suffered a setback due to lack of funds.
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: "資金不足で計画が ＿＿＿ してしまった。" (Meaning: "The plan suffered a setback due to lack of funds.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "頓挫" fits here because it means "setback, deadlock, frustration (of a plan)" in the context of: "The plan suffered a setback due to lack of funds.". "蹉跌" represents "setback, stumble, failure, misstep".