Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Start" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "start", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
振り出す
ふりだす (furidasu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
着手
ちゃくしゅ (chakushu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "start" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 振り出す and 着手.
In Japanese, 振り出す (ふりだす (furidasu)) is typically associated with "to start to rain/snow (suddenly); to issue (a check, bill)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 雨や雪が急に降り始める様子や、小切手・手形などを発行する際に使われます。/ Used when rain or snow suddenly starts, or when issuing checks or bills..
On the other hand, 着手 (ちゃくしゅ (chakushu)) maps to "to start work; to embark on; to set about" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 新しいプロジェクトや計画などに「具体的な行動を開始する」ことを指す、ややフォーマルな表現です。A somewhat formal expression referring to 'commencing concrete actions' on a new project or plan.. A literal translation of "start" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "振り出す"
急に雨が振り出したので、洗濯物を取り込んだ。
It suddenly started raining, so I brought in the laundry.
Bilingual Context for "着手"
新しいビルの建設プロジェクトがついに着手された。
The construction project for the new building has finally commenced.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "急に雨が振り出したので、洗濯物を取り込んだ。" (Meaning: "It suddenly started raining, so I brought in the laundry.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "振り出す" fits here because it means "to start to rain/snow (suddenly); to issue (a check, bill)" in the context of: "It suddenly started raining, so I brought in the laundry.". "着手" represents "to start work; to embark on; to set about".