Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Turn" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "turn", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
翻す
ひるがえす (hirugaesu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
好転
こうてん (kōten)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "turn" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 翻す and 好転.
In Japanese, 翻す (ひるがえす (hirugaesu)) is typically associated with "to turn over; to change; to reverse; to flap (a flag)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 物理的に物を裏返す、または意見、方針、決定などを急に、あるいは完全に変更することを指します。.
On the other hand, 好転 (こうてん (kōten)) maps to "turn for the better, improvement" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Describes a situation, condition, or trend changing from a negative or unfavorable state to a positive or favorable one. Commonly used for health, economy, weather, etc.. A literal translation of "turn" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "翻す"
彼は自分の意見を簡単に翻した。
He easily changed his opinion.
Bilingual Context for "好転"
患者の病状は徐々に好転している。
The patient's condition is gradually improving.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は自分の意見を簡単に翻した。" (Meaning: "He easily changed his opinion.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "翻す" fits here because it means "to turn over; to change; to reverse; to flap (a flag)" in the context of: "He easily changed his opinion.". "好転" represents "turn for the better, improvement".