Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Suddenly" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "suddenly", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
突然
とつぜん (totsuzen)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
突如
とつじょ (totsujo)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "suddenly" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 突然 and 突如.
In Japanese, 突然 (とつぜん (totsuzen)) is typically associated with "suddenly, unexpectedly" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used to describe something that happens quickly and without warning. Can be used as an adverb or with 「の」 as an adjective.
On the other hand, 突如 (とつじょ (totsujo)) maps to "suddenly, all of a sudden" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A formal and strong way to express suddenness. Often used for unexpected, dramatic events or actions. Similar to 突然. A literal translation of "suddenly" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "突然"
突然、雨が降り始めた。
Suddenly, it started to rain.
Bilingual Context for "突如"
会議中に、彼は突如として立ち上がり、意見を述べた。
During the meeting, he suddenly stood up and expressed his opinion.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 、雨が降り始めた。" (Meaning: "Suddenly, it started to rain.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "突然" fits here because it means "suddenly, unexpectedly" in the context of: "Suddenly, it started to rain.". "突如" represents "suddenly, all of a sudden".