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How to say "Strict" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "strict", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

厳格

げんかく (genkaku)
N2 / 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 厳格 and 厳守. In Japanese, 厳格 (げんかく (genkaku)) is typically associated with "strict, severe, rigid, rigorous" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used to describe rules, standards, or people's attitudes/personalities that are very firm and allow no deviation. 規則や態度が非常に厳しく、少しの違反も許さない様子を表す。. 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 "厳格"
彼の先生は時間にとても厳格だ。
His teacher is very strict about time.
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: "彼の先生は時間にとても ___ だ。" (Meaning: "His teacher is very strict about time.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "厳格" fits here because it means "strict, severe, rigid, rigorous" in the context of: "His teacher is very strict about time.". "厳守" represents "strict observance; strict adherence; strict compliance".