Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "This" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "this", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
今週
こんしゅう (konshuu)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
今年
ことし (kotoshi)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "this" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 今週 and 今年.
In Japanese, 今週 (こんしゅう (konshuu)) is typically associated with "this week" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Refers to the current week. Often used to talk about plans or events happening within the present week..
On the other hand, 今年 (ことし (kotoshi)) maps to "this year" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Common term for the current year. Used frequently in conversations and writing.. A literal translation of "this" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "今週"
今週の週末は映画を見に行きます。
I'm going to see a movie this weekend.
Bilingual Context for "今年"
今年は日本に行きます。
I will go to Japan this year.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ の週末は映画を見に行きます。" (Meaning: "I'm going to see a movie this weekend.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "今週" fits here because it means "this week" in the context of: "I'm going to see a movie this weekend.". "今年" represents "this year".