Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Time" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "time", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
手間
てま (tema)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
取り敢えず
とりあえず (toriaezu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "time" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 手間 and 取り敢えず.
In Japanese, 手間 (てま (tema)) is typically associated with "time and effort, trouble, labor" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to the time, effort, or labor required to do something. Often used with かかる.
On the other hand, 取り敢えず (とりあえず (toriaezu)) maps to "for the time being, for now, first of all" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Indicates a temporary measure or an initial action taken before a more comprehensive or permanent solution is implemented. It implies a lack of immediate finality.. A literal translation of "time" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "手間"
この料理は作るのに手間がかかる。
This dish takes a lot of time and effort to prepare.
Bilingual Context for "取り敢えず"
取り敢えず、お茶を一杯いかがですか。
For now, would you like a cup of tea?
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この料理は作るのに ＿＿＿ がかかる。" (Meaning: "This dish takes a lot of time and effort to prepare.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "手間" fits here because it means "time and effort, trouble, labor" in the context of: "This dish takes a lot of time and effort to prepare.". "取り敢えず" represents "for the time being, for now, first of all".