Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Valid" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "valid", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
有効
ゆうこう (yūkō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
有効な
ゆうこうな (yuukouna)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "valid" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 有効 and 有効な.
In Japanese, 有効 (ゆうこう (yūkō)) is typically associated with "Valid, effective" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Indicates that something is effective, valid, or has utility. Often used for tickets, permits, strategies, etc. Can be used with の as an adjective.
On the other hand, 有効な (ゆうこうな (yuukouna)) maps to "valid; effective; current" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Used to describe something that is valid, effective, or still current, such as a ticket, license, or method. It is a な-adjective.. A literal translation of "valid" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "有効"
このクーポンは今日まで有効です。
This coupon is valid until today.
Bilingual Context for "有効な"
このチケットは明日まで有効です。
This ticket is valid until tomorrow.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "このクーポンは今日まで ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "This coupon is valid until today.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "有効" fits here because it means "Valid, effective" in the context of: "This coupon is valid until today.". "有効な" represents "valid; effective; current".