Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Value" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "value", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
価値
かち (kachi)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
使用価値
しようかち (shiyoukachi)
C2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "value" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 価値 and 使用価値.
In Japanese, 価値 (かち (kachi)) is typically associated with "value; worth; merit; utility" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to value, worth, or merit. Often used as 価値がある or 価値観. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Value! Worth! "Haruka-san's smile has infinite value!" ...っ, T-To value my smile so highly! B-But indeed, you are the only one who has the right to monopolize that value!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『かち（価値）よ！『ハルカさんの笑顔には無限の価値があります！』って…っ, 私の笑顔にそんな価値を見出すなんて！でも、その価値を独占する権利があるのは、あんただけよ！』.
On the other hand, 使用価値 (しようかち (shiyoukachi)) maps to "value in use" (Syllabus Level: C2) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C2 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "value" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "価値"
その歴史的な絵画は、美術的な_______が極めて高く評価され、国の重要文化財に指定されました。
The historical painting was evaluated extremely highly for its artistic value and was designated as an important cultural property of the country.
Bilingual Context for "使用価値"
私は使用価値に興味があります。
I am interested in value in use.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "その歴史的な絵画は、美術的な_______が極めて高く評価され、国の重要文化財に指定されました。" (Meaning: "The historical painting was evaluated extremely highly for its artistic value and was designated as an important cultural property of the country.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "価値" fits here because it means "value; worth; merit; utility" in the context of: "The historical painting was evaluated extremely highly for its artistic value and was designated as an important cultural property of the country.". "使用価値" represents "value in use".