Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Start" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "start", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
着工
ちゃっこう (chakkou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
手始め
てはじめ (tehajime)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "start" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 着工 and 手始め.
In Japanese, 着工 (ちゃっこう (chakkou)) is typically associated with "start of construction" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Specifically refers to the commencement of construction work on a building or project. Often used with 「する」.
On the other hand, 手始め (てはじめ (tehajime)) maps to "start, beginning, first step" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the initial action or first step in a series of tasks or an endeavor. Often used with 「手始めに」. A literal translation of "start" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "着工"
新しいビルの建設は来月着工する予定だ。
Construction of the new building is scheduled to start next month.
Bilingual Context for "手始め"
まずは手始めに資料を集めることから始めよう。
First, let's start by gathering materials.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "新しいビルの建設は来月 ＿＿＿ する予定だ。" (Meaning: "Construction of the new building is scheduled to start next month.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "着工" fits here because it means "start of construction" in the context of: "Construction of the new building is scheduled to start next month.". "手始め" represents "start, beginning, first step".