Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Skillful" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "skillful", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
器用な
きような (kiyou na)
N3 / 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 器用な and 巧み.
In Japanese, 器用な (きような (kiyou na)) is typically associated with "skillful; handy; dexterous" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents A な-adjective describing someone who is good at using their hands, performing tasks with skill, or generally being able to handle various things well. Often contrasts with 不器用.
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 "器用な"
彼女は手先がとても器用で、細かい作業が得意です。
She is very dexterous with her hands and is good at detailed work.
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: "彼女は手先がとても器用で、細かい作業が得意です。" (Meaning: "She is very dexterous with her hands and is good at detailed work.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "器用な" fits here because it means "skillful; handy; dexterous" in the context of: "She is very dexterous with her hands and is good at detailed work.". "巧み" represents "skillful, clever, ingenious".