Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Strict" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "strict", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
厳重
げんじゅう (genjū)
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 厳重 and 厳格.
In Japanese, 厳重 (げんじゅう (genjū)) is typically associated with "strict; severe; rigorous; stringent; tight (security)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Emphasizes thoroughness and strictness, often concerning security measures, warnings, or precautions to prevent negative outcomes. Implies a high level of caution and control..
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 "厳重"
個人情報は厳重に管理されているため、ご安心ください。
Personal information is managed under strict security, so please be assured.
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: "個人情報は ＿＿＿ に管理されているため、ご安心ください。" (Meaning: "Personal information is managed under strict security, so please be assured.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "厳重" fits here because it means "strict; severe; rigorous; stringent; tight (security)" in the context of: "Personal information is managed under strict security, so please be assured.". "厳格" represents "strict, severe, rigid, rigorous".