Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "System" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "system", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
システム
システム (shisutemu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
系統
けいとう (keitou)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "system" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between システム and 系統.
In Japanese, システム (システム (shisutemu)) is typically associated with "system" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents A loanword from English. Refers to an organized scheme, method, or set of procedures, often related to computers or administration..
On the other hand, 系統 (けいとう (keitou)) maps to "system; lineage; family line; group (of schools, thoughts, etc.)" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents 関連性のあるものが一連のつながりや規則性を持って構成されていることです。学問や思想、血縁など、様々な文脈で使われます。. A literal translation of "system" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "システム"
この新しいシステムは、とても使いやすいです。
This new system is very easy to use.
Bilingual Context for "系統"
彼は理系の系統の学部に進んだ。
He enrolled in a faculty in the science discipline.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この新しい ＿＿＿ は、とても使いやすいです。" (Meaning: "This new system is very easy to use.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "システム" fits here because it means "system" in the context of: "This new system is very easy to use.". "系統" represents "system; lineage; family line; group (of schools, thoughts, etc.)".