Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Soften" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "soften", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
和らげる
やわらげる (yawarageru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
和らぐ
やわらぐ (yawaraku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "soften" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 和らげる and 和らぐ.
In Japanese, 和らげる (やわらげる (yawarageru)) is typically associated with "to soften, to moderate, to relieve, to ease" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents To make something less intense, harsh, or painful. Can be used for physical pain, emotions, or conditions..
On the other hand, 和らぐ (やわらぐ (yawaraku)) maps to "to soften; to calm down; to be eased; to be relaxed" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Intransitive verb. Describes something. A literal translation of "soften" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "和らげる"
痛みを和らげる薬を飲んだ。
I took medicine to relieve the pain.
Bilingual Context for "和らぐ"
薬を飲んだら、痛みが少し和らいだ。
After taking the medicine, the pain eased a little.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "痛みを ＿＿＿ 薬を飲んだ。" (Meaning: "I took medicine to relieve the pain.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "和らげる" fits here because it means "to soften, to moderate, to relieve, to ease" in the context of: "I took medicine to relieve the pain.". "和らぐ" represents "to soften; to calm down; to be eased; to be relaxed".