Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Take" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "take", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
講じる
こうじる (kōjiru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
受け持つ
うけもつ (ukemotsu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "take" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 講じる and 受け持つ.
In Japanese, 講じる (こうじる (kōjiru)) is typically associated with "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..
On the other hand, 受け持つ (うけもつ (ukemotsu)) maps to "to take charge of, to be in charge of, to be responsible for" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Used when someone is assigned a role, duty, or responsibility, often in educational or professional settings. 任務や職務、授業などを担当する、責任を持つという意味で使われます。. A literal translation of "take" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "受け持つ"
彼は来月から新しいプロジェクトを受け持つことになった。
He will be in charge of the new project from next month.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "問題解決のために具体的な対策を ＿＿＿ 。" (Meaning: "We will take concrete measures to solve the problem.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "講じる" fits here because it means "to take measures, to adopt, to implement" in the context of: "We will take concrete measures to solve the problem.". "受け持つ" represents "to take charge of, to be in charge of, to be responsible for".