Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Speech" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "speech", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
スピーチ
スピーチ (supīchi)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
言動
げんどう (gendō)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "speech" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between スピーチ and 言動.
In Japanese, スピーチ (スピーチ (supīchi)) is typically associated with "speech" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A loanword from English. Refers to a formal address given to an audience, often on a specific topic or occasion..
On the other hand, 言動 (げんどう (gendō)) maps to "speech and conduct, words and deeds" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to a person's combined actions and words, often implying a judgment of their character or behavior.. A literal translation of "speech" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "スピーチ"
彼は結婚式で感動的なスピーチをした。
He gave a moving speech at the wedding.
Bilingual Context for "言動"
彼の言動は周囲に大きな影響を与えるため、慎重であるべきだ。
His words and deeds have a great influence on those around him, so he should be careful.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は結婚式で感動的な ＿＿＿ をした。" (Meaning: "He gave a moving speech at the wedding.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "スピーチ" fits here because it means "speech" in the context of: "He gave a moving speech at the wedding.". "言動" represents "speech and conduct, words and deeds".