Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Take" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "take", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
代わる
かわる (kawaru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
講じる
こうじる (kōjiru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "take" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 代わる and 講じる.
In Japanese, 代わる (かわる (kawaru)) is typically associated with "to take the place of, to substitute for, to be replaced" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to one thing replacing another, or someone substituting for someone else. Can be used for changes in personnel, objects, or even situations..
On the other hand, 講じる (こうじる (kōjiru)) maps to "to take measures, to adopt, to implement" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used in formal contexts, especially when discussing measures, policies, or actions to address a situation.. A literal translation of "take" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "代わる"
今日は先生の代わりに私が授業をします。
Today, I will teach the class instead of the teacher.
Bilingual Context for "講じる"
問題解決のために具体的な対策を講じる。
We will take concrete measures to solve the problem.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "今日は先生の代わりに私が授業をします。" (Meaning: "Today, I will teach the class instead of the teacher.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "代わる" fits here because it means "to take the place of, to substitute for, to be replaced" in the context of: "Today, I will teach the class instead of the teacher.". "講じる" represents "to take measures, to adopt, to implement".