Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Structure" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "structure", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
構成
こうせい (kōsei)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
構造
こうぞう (kōzō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "structure" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 構成 and 構造.
In Japanese, 構成 (こうせい (kōsei)) is typically associated with "structure; composition; organization" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents 抽象的なもの（組織、文章、システムなど）が何から成り立っているか、どのように組み立てられているかを指します。Refers to how abstract things.
On the other hand, 構造 (こうぞう (kōzō)) maps to "structure, construction, framework" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents 物理的なものや抽象的な概念の両方に使われます。物事の仕組みや成り立ちを表す際に用いられます。Used for both physical objects and abstract concepts, referring to the mechanism or composition of something.. A literal translation of "structure" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "構成"
このレポートの構成はとても分かりやすい。
The composition of this report is very easy to understand.
Bilingual Context for "構造"
このビルの構造は非常に複雑です。
The structure of this building is very complex.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "このレポートの ＿＿＿ はとても分かりやすい。" (Meaning: "The composition of this report is very easy to understand.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "構成" fits here because it means "structure; composition; organization" in the context of: "The composition of this report is very easy to understand.". "構造" represents "structure, construction, framework".