Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Suddenly" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "suddenly", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
急に
きゅうに (kyūni)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
一躍
いちやく (ichiyaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "suddenly" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 急に and 一躍.
In Japanese, 急に (きゅうに (kyūni)) is typically associated with "suddenly" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Adverb. Indicates an unexpected, abrupt, or rapid change or occurrence. It often expresses a surprise or sudden shift in situation..
On the other hand, 一躍 (いちやく (ichiyaku)) maps to "suddenly; overnight; at a bound; with a single leap" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes a rapid and significant change in status, fame, or position. Implies sudden advancement.. A literal translation of "suddenly" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "急に"
道で急に犬が飛び出してきたので驚いた。
I was surprised because a dog suddenly jumped out onto the road.
Bilingual Context for "一躍"
彼はその映画で主演し、一躍有名になった。
He starred in that movie and suddenly became famous.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "道で ＿＿＿ 犬が飛び出してきたので驚いた。" (Meaning: "I was surprised because a dog suddenly jumped out onto the road.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "急に" fits here because it means "suddenly" in the context of: "I was surprised because a dog suddenly jumped out onto the road.". "一躍" represents "suddenly; overnight; at a bound; with a single leap".