Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Strict" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "strict", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
厳しい
きびしい (kibishii)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
厳守
げんしゅ (genshu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "strict" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 厳しい and 厳守.
In Japanese, 厳しい (きびしい (kibishii)) is typically associated with "strict; severe; harsh" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents An い-adjective describing strictness in rules, people.
On the other hand, 厳守 (げんしゅ (genshu)) maps to "strict observance; strict adherence; strict compliance" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used with rules, deadlines, or promises to emphasize the importance of following them without fail. Usually precedes する. A literal translation of "strict" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "厳しい"
私の先生はとても厳しいです。
My teacher is very strict.
Bilingual Context for "厳守"
納期を厳守してください。
Please strictly observe the deadline.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私の先生はとても ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "My teacher is very strict.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "厳しい" fits here because it means "strict; severe; harsh" in the context of: "My teacher is very strict.". "厳守" represents "strict observance; strict adherence; strict compliance".