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How to say "Simple" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "simple", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

簡単

かんたん (kantan)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

簡略

かんりゃく (kanryaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "simple" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 簡単 and 簡略. In Japanese, 簡単 (かんたん (kantan)) is typically associated with "simple, easy" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A な-adjective. Describes things that are not difficult, straightforward, or uncomplicated. Opposite of 複雑. On the other hand, 簡略 (かんりゃく (kanryaku)) maps to "simple; simplified; brief" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes something made simpler by omitting details or steps, often for efficiency or convenience. Similar to 簡潔 but more about simplification of a process, procedure, or form rather than style of expression. Often used as a な-adjective. A literal translation of "simple" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "簡単"
このテストはとても簡単でした。
This test was very easy.
Bilingual Context for "簡略"
手続きを簡略化することで、時間が大幅に短縮された。
By simplifying the procedures, the time was significantly reduced.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "このテストはとても ___ でした。" (Meaning: "This test was very easy.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "簡単" fits here because it means "simple, easy" in the context of: "This test was very easy.". "簡略" represents "simple; simplified; brief".

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