Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Skill" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "skill", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
手際
てぎわ (tegiwa)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
熟練
じゅくれん (jukuren)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "skill" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 手際 and 熟練.
In Japanese, 手際 (てぎわ (tegiwa)) is typically associated with "skill, knack, dexterity, way of doing things (skillfully)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to how well or skillfully a task is performed, often implying speed and efficiency. Can be used to praise or criticize someone's execution of work..
On the other hand, 熟練 (じゅくれん (jukuren)) maps to "skill; proficiency; mastery" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to a high level of skill or expertise gained through long experience and practice. Often used to describe a person's ability in a particular field, e.g., '熟練工'. A literal translation of "skill" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "手際"
彼女は料理の手際が良い。
She is skillful at cooking.
Bilingual Context for "熟練"
彼は長年の経験で熟練した技術を持っている。
He has skilled techniques from many years of experience.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼女は料理の ＿＿＿ が良い。" (Meaning: "She is skillful at cooking.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "手際" fits here because it means "skill, knack, dexterity, way of doing things (skillfully)" in the context of: "She is skillful at cooking.". "熟練" represents "skill; proficiency; mastery".