Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Trial" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "trial", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
試行
しこう (shikou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
試算
しさん (shisan)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "trial" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 試行 and 試算.
In Japanese, 試行 (しこう (shikou)) is typically associated with "trial, test, experiment, probation" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the act of trying something out to see how it works or to confirm its effectiveness. Often used in technical or formal contexts, like 'trial run' or 'pilot program'..
On the other hand, 試算 (しさん (shisan)) maps to "trial calculation; estimate; preliminary calculation" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Refers to a provisional calculation or estimate, often done to get an approximate figure before making a final decision or detailed plan. 最終的な決定の前に、概算や仮の計算をすることを指す。. A literal translation of "trial" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "試行"
新しいシステムを試行する。
We will try out the new system.
Bilingual Context for "試算"
新しいプロジェクトの費用を試算してみた。
I made a trial calculation for the costs of the new project.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "新しいシステムを ＿＿＿ する。" (Meaning: "We will try out the new system.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "試行" fits here because it means "trial, test, experiment, probation" in the context of: "We will try out the new system.". "試算" represents "trial calculation; estimate; preliminary calculation".