Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Success" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "success", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
成功
せいこう (seikou)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
成否
せいひ (seihi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "success" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 成功 and 成否.
In Japanese, 成功 (せいこう (seikou)) is typically associated with "success" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A noun.
On the other hand, 成否 (せいひ (seihi)) maps to "success or failure" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used when discussing the outcome of a plan, project, or endeavor, specifically whether it will succeed or fail. It refers to the binary result.. A literal translation of "success" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "成功"
プレゼンテーションは大成功だった。
The presentation was a great success.
Bilingual Context for "成否"
このプロジェクトの成否は、君の働きにかかっている。
The success or failure of this project depends on your work.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "プレゼンテーションは大 ＿＿＿ だった。" (Meaning: "The presentation was a great success.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "成功" fits here because it means "success" in the context of: "The presentation was a great success.". "成否" represents "success or failure".