Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Without" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "without", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
すかさず
すかさず (sukasazu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
躊躇なく
ちゅうちょなく (chuuchonaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "without" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between すかさず and 躊躇なく.
In Japanese, すかさず (すかさず (sukasazu)) is typically associated with "without delay, instantly, immediately, promptly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Adverb. Implies acting quickly and without hesitation in response to a situation or opportunity. Often used for quick reactions or seizing chances..
On the other hand, 躊躇なく (ちゅうちょなく (chuuchonaku)) maps to "without hesitation, readily, promptly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Emphasizes doing something immediately or decisively, without thinking twice. Often used for positive or neutral actions that require quick decision-making or action.. A literal translation of "without" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "すかさず"
彼は相手のミスをすかさず攻めた。
He immediately attacked his opponent's mistake.
Bilingual Context for "躊躇なく"
彼は躊躇なく新しい挑戦を受け入れた。
He accepted the new challenge without hesitation.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は相手のミスを ＿＿＿ 攻めた。" (Meaning: "He immediately attacked his opponent's mistake.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "すかさず" fits here because it means "without delay, instantly, immediately, promptly" in the context of: "He immediately attacked his opponent's mistake.". "躊躇なく" represents "without hesitation, readily, promptly".