Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "This" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "this", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
今年
ことし (kotoshi)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
今回
こんかい (konkai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "this" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 今年 and 今回.
In Japanese, 今年 (ことし (kotoshi)) is typically associated with "this year" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Common term for the current year. Used frequently in conversations and writing..
On the other hand, 今回 (こんかい (konkai)) maps to "this time" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to the current occasion or instance, distinguishing it from previous or future occasions. Often used to set the context for a specific event or action.. A literal translation of "this" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "今年"
今年は日本に行きます。
I will go to Japan this year.
Bilingual Context for "今回"
今回の試験は前回より難しかった。
This exam was more difficult than the last one.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ は日本に行きます。" (Meaning: "I will go to Japan this year.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "今年" fits here because it means "this year" in the context of: "I will go to Japan this year.". "今回" represents "this time".