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
慰労
いろう (irō)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "thank" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 感謝する and 慰労.
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, 慰労 (いろう (irō)) maps to "to thank/reward for hard work, to express appreciation for efforts" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Expressing appreciation or gratitude for someone's hard work and effort, often after a demanding period or project, acknowledging their fatigue and thanking them.. 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 "慰労"
長いプロジェクトが終わった後、社員を慰労するパーティーが開かれた。
After the long project finished, a party was held to thank the employees for their hard work.
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.". "慰労" represents "to thank/reward for hard work, to express appreciation for efforts".