Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Temperament" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "temperament", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
気性
きしょう (kishō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
気質
きしつ (kishitsu / katagi)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "temperament" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 気性 and 気質.
In Japanese, 気性 (きしょう (kishō)) is typically associated with "temperament; disposition; spirit; fiery temper" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to one's temperament, disposition, or innate spirit.
On the other hand, 気質 (きしつ (kishitsu / katagi)) maps to "temperament; character; mental setup; professional spirit (katagi)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to temperament, character, mental setup, or a shared professional/regional spirit. A literal translation of "temperament" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "気性"
あの競走馬は非常に激しい_______の持ち主で、騎手でさえ乗りこなすのが困難なことで有名です。
That racehorse is famous for having an extremely fierce temperament, making it difficult for even jockeys to manage.
Bilingual Context for "気質"
彼は典型的な芸術家_______の持ち主であり、自分の納得のいく作品ができるまで何日もアトリエに籠り続けます。
He has a typical artist temperament, locking himself in the atelier for days until he produces a work that satisfies him.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "あの競走馬は非常に激しい_______の持ち主で、騎手でさえ乗りこなすのが困難なことで有名です。" (Meaning: "That racehorse is famous for having an extremely fierce temperament, making it difficult for even jockeys to manage.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "気性" fits here because it means "temperament; disposition; spirit; fiery temper" in the context of: "That racehorse is famous for having an extremely fierce temperament, making it difficult for even jockeys to manage.". "気質" represents "temperament; character; mental setup; professional spirit (katagi)".