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
斯学
しがく (shigaku)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "this" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 今年 and 斯学.
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, 斯学 (しがく (shigaku)) maps to "this field of study; this learning" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Formal, often used in academic contexts to refer to the specific field of study the speaker is currently discussing.. 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 "斯学"
斯学の発展に貢献したいと考えています。
I aim to contribute to the development of this field of study.
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.". "斯学" represents "this field of study; this learning".