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
値打ち
ねうち (neuchi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "value" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 価値 and 値打ち.
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, 値打ち (ねうち (neuchi)) maps to "value, worth, merit" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the monetary value, intrinsic worth, or merit of an object, experience, or action. Can be used for both tangible and intangible things.. 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 "値打ち"
この古い絵には高い値打ちがある。
This old painting has great value.
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.". "値打ち" represents "value, worth, merit".