Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Strict" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "strict", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
厳重な
げんじゅうな (genjūna)
N3 / 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 厳重な and 厳格.
In Japanese, 厳重な (げんじゅうな (genjūna)) is typically associated with "strict, rigorous, severe, tight (security)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Describes something that is very strict, severe, or tightly controlled, often related to security, rules, or warnings. It's a な-adjective. 「厳重に警戒する.
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 "厳重な"
その建物は厳重な警備で守られている。
That building is protected by strict security.
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: "その建物は ＿＿＿ 警備で守られている。" (Meaning: "That building is protected by strict security.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "厳重な" fits here because it means "strict, rigorous, severe, tight (security)" in the context of: "That building is protected by strict security.". "厳格" represents "strict, severe, rigid, rigorous".