Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Thus" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "thus", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
こうして
こうして (kōshite)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
斯くして
かくして (kakushite)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "thus" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between こうして and 斯くして.
In Japanese, こうして (こうして (kōshite)) is typically associated with "thus, in this way, like this" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to connect two sentences or clauses, indicating the manner or method by which something is done, or to show the result/consequence of a preceding action. It translates to 'in this way', 'thus', or 'by doing this'..
On the other hand, 斯くして (かくして (kakushite)) maps to "thus; and so; in this way; in this manner" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Formal and somewhat literary. It connects preceding events or statements to a resulting conclusion or outcome, often implying 'and so it came to pass...' or 'in this way, something happened.' Less common in casual spoken language.. A literal translation of "thus" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "こうして"
彼は毎日練習した。こうして、ピアノが上手になった。
He practiced every day. In this way, he became good at the piano.
Bilingual Context for "斯くして"
彼は一生懸命に勉強した。斯くして、念願の大学に合格することができた。
He studied diligently. Thus, he was able to pass the entrance exam for his dream university.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は毎日練習した。 ＿＿＿ 、ピアノが上手になった。" (Meaning: "He practiced every day. In this way, he became good at the piano.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "こうして" fits here because it means "thus, in this way, like this" in the context of: "He practiced every day. In this way, he became good at the piano.". "斯くして" represents "thus; and so; in this way; in this manner".