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Synonym Nuance VS

How to say "True" in Japanese

Both words can translate to "true", but which should you choose?

Japanese Option A

真価

しんか (shinka)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B

実感

じっかん (jikkan)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus

Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference

When translating "true" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 真価 and 実感. In Japanese, 真価 (しんか (shinka)) is typically associated with "true worth, true value, real value" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the actual, inherent value or capability of something or someone, which may not be immediately obvious. Often revealed in challenging situations.. On the other hand, 実感 (じっかん (jikkan)) maps to "true feeling, real feeling, actual feeling, realization" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents To truly feel or realize something, often after a period of abstract understanding. Used with する. A literal translation of "true" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "真価"
彼の真価は危機的状況でこそ発揮される。
His true worth is displayed in critical situations.
Bilingual Context for "実感"
実際に現地に行って、初めて災害の大きさを実感した。
I truly realized the magnitude of the disaster only after going to the actual site.

Nuance Mastery Quiz

Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?

Fill in the blank: "彼の ___ は危機的状況でこそ発揮される。" (Meaning: "His true worth is displayed in critical situations.")
🎉 Correct Answer!

Remember: "真価" fits here because it means "true worth, true value, real value" in the context of: "His true worth is displayed in critical situations.". "実感" represents "true feeling, real feeling, actual feeling, realization".