Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Thank" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "thank", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
感謝する
かんしゃする (kansha suru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
労う
ねぎらう (negirau)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "thank" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 感謝する and 労う.
In Japanese, 感謝する (かんしゃする (kansha suru)) is typically associated with "to thank, to appreciate, to be grateful" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A more formal way to express gratitude compared to ありがとう. Often used in written form, formal speeches, or when expressing deep appreciation..
On the other hand, 労う (ねぎらう (negirau)) maps to "to thank for one's efforts, to reward for toil, to appreciate hard work" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents 大変な仕事や努力、貢献に対して、感謝や慰労の気持ちを表す際に用いられます。達成後や一区切りついた時に使われることが多いです。. A literal translation of "thank" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "感謝する"
皆様のご協力に心から感謝いたします。
I sincerely thank you all for your cooperation.
Bilingual Context for "労う"
長年の功績を労う。
To appreciate someone's long-standing achievements.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "皆様のご協力に心から感謝いたします。" (Meaning: "I sincerely thank you all for your cooperation.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "感謝する" fits here because it means "to thank, to appreciate, to be grateful" in the context of: "I sincerely thank you all for your cooperation.". "労う" represents "to thank for one's efforts, to reward for toil, to appreciate hard work".