Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "State" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "state", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
様子
ようす (yōsu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
状態
じょうたい (joutai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "state" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 様子 and 状態.
In Japanese, 様子 (ようす (yōsu)) is typically associated with "state; appearance; behavior" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to the state, appearance, or behavior of a person or situation. Often used with 様子を見る.
On the other hand, 状態 (じょうたい (joutai)) maps to "state, condition, situation" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Describes the current condition, status, or state of something or someone. Can refer to physical state, mental state, or the state of affairs.. A literal translation of "state" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "様子"
彼の様子がおかしいので、何か悩み事があるのかもしれません。
His behavior is strange, so he might have some worries.
Bilingual Context for "状態"
この機械はまだ良い状態を保っている。
This machine is still in good condition.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の ＿＿＿ がおかしいので、何か悩み事があるのかもしれません。" (Meaning: "His behavior is strange, so he might have some worries.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "様子" fits here because it means "state; appearance; behavior" in the context of: "His behavior is strange, so he might have some worries.". "状態" represents "state, condition, situation".