Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "This" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "this", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
今月
こんげつ (kongetsu)
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 今月 and 今回.
In Japanese, 今月 (こんげつ (kongetsu)) is typically associated with "this month" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Refers to the current month. Used for plans or events occurring within the present month..
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 "今月"
今月は私の誕生日があります。
My birthday is this month.
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: " ＿＿＿ は私の誕生日があります。" (Meaning: "My birthday is this month.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "今月" fits here because it means "this month" in the context of: "My birthday is this month.". "今回" represents "this time".