Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Trial" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "trial", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
試行錯誤
しこうさくご (shikousakugo)
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 試行錯誤 and 試算.
In Japanese, 試行錯誤 (しこうさくご (shikousakugo)) is typically associated with "trial and error" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents The process of trying various methods and learning from mistakes to find a solution. Essential in problem-solving and innovation, often used with 繰り返す.
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 "試行錯誤"
新しい技術の開発は、試行錯誤の連続だった。
The development of new technology was a continuous process of trial and error.
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: "新しい技術の開発は、 ＿＿＿ の連続だった。" (Meaning: "The development of new technology was a continuous process of trial and error.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "試行錯誤" fits here because it means "trial and error" in the context of: "The development of new technology was a continuous process of trial and error.". "試算" represents "trial calculation; estimate; preliminary calculation".