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
試行
しこう (shikou)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "trial" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 試行錯誤 and 試行.
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, 試行 (しこう (shikou)) maps to "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'.. 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 "試行"
新しいシステムを試行する。
We will try out the new system.
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.". "試行" represents "trial, test, experiment, probation".