Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Trigger" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "trigger", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
きっかけ
きっかけ (kikkake)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
触発
しょくはつ (shokuhatsu)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "trigger" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between きっかけ and 触発.
In Japanese, きっかけ (きっかけ (kikkake)) is typically associated with "trigger, cue, start, catalyst, opportunity" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents The direct impetus or opportunity that starts something. Often refers to the initial event or motivation. More common and less formal than 誘因..
On the other hand, 触発 (しょくはつ (shokuhatsu)) maps to "to trigger, to be stimulated, to be inspired by, to ignite" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Means to be stimulated or inspired by an external event, idea, or person, leading to one's own action, creation, or thought. Can also mean to trigger a chain reaction or an explosive event. A literal translation of "trigger" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "きっかけ"
彼の言葉が私が小説家になるきっかけでした。
His words were the catalyst for me to become a novelist.
Bilingual Context for "触発"
彼の作品は、多くの若手アーティストに触発を与えた。
His work inspired many young artists.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の言葉が私が小説家になる ＿＿＿ でした。" (Meaning: "His words were the catalyst for me to become a novelist.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "きっかけ" fits here because it means "trigger, cue, start, catalyst, opportunity" in the context of: "His words were the catalyst for me to become a novelist.". "触発" represents "to trigger, to be stimulated, to be inspired by, to ignite".