Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Skillful" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "skillful", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
上手
じょうず (jōzu)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
巧み
たくみ (takumi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "skillful" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 上手 and 巧み.
In Japanese, 上手 (じょうず (jōzu)) is typically associated with "skillful, good at" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents な-adjective.
On the other hand, 巧み (たくみ (takumi)) maps to "skillful, clever, ingenious" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Highlights a high level of skill or ingenuity, especially in intricate or delicate tasks. Can be used as 巧みな. A literal translation of "skillful" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "上手"
彼は日本語がとても上手です。
He is very good at Japanese.
Bilingual Context for "巧み"
彼女は巧みな話術で聴衆を魅了した。
She captivated the audience with her skillful way of speaking.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は日本語がとても ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "He is very good at Japanese.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "上手" fits here because it means "skillful, good at" in the context of: "He is very good at Japanese.". "巧み" represents "skillful, clever, ingenious".