Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Strict" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "strict", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
厳正
げんせい (gensei)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
厳格
げんかく (genkaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "strict" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 厳正 and 厳格.
In Japanese, 厳正 (げんせい (gensei)) is typically associated with "strict, impartial, rigorous, fair" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Implies fairness and adherence to rules without bias, often used in official or legal contexts, like '厳正な審査'.
On the other hand, 厳格 (げんかく (genkaku)) maps to "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。. A literal translation of "strict" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "厳正"
その問題は厳正に調査されるべきだ。
That issue should be rigorously investigated.
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.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その問題は ___ に調査されるべきだ。" (Meaning: "That issue should be rigorously investigated.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "厳正" fits here because it means "strict, impartial, rigorous, fair" in the context of: "That issue should be rigorously investigated.". "厳格" represents "strict, severe, rigid, rigorous".