Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Understanding" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "understanding", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
納得
なっとく (nattoku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
了解
りょうかい (ryōkai)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "understanding" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 納得 and 了解.
In Japanese, 納得 (なっとく (nattoku)) is typically associated with "understanding, acceptance, consent" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents To understand and agree with something, or to be convinced. Often used with する.
On the other hand, 了解 (りょうかい (ryōkai)) maps to "understanding; agreement; 'Roger that!'; 'Understood.'" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to express understanding or agreement, often in a more casual or direct context than 承知しました. A literal translation of "understanding" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "納得"
彼の説明を聞いて、ようやく納得しました。
After hearing his explanation, I finally understood/was convinced.
Bilingual Context for "了解"
「明日の会議は10時からです。」「了解しました。」
"Tomorrow's meeting is from 10 o'clock." "Understood."
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の説明を聞いて、ようやく ___ しました。" (Meaning: "After hearing his explanation, I finally understood/was convinced.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "納得" fits here because it means "understanding, acceptance, consent" in the context of: "After hearing his explanation, I finally understood/was convinced.". "了解" represents "understanding; agreement; 'Roger that!'; 'Understood.'".