Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Without" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "without", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
躊躇なく
ちゅうちょなく (chuuchonaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
無碍
むげ (muge)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "without" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 躊躇なく and 無碍.
In Japanese, 躊躇なく (ちゅうちょなく (chuuchonaku)) is typically associated with "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..
On the other hand, 無碍 (むげ (muge)) maps to "without hindrance, without impediment, freely, unreservedly" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents 何の妨げもなく、自由に行動できること。また、遠慮なく振る舞う様子。仏教用語に由来する。. A literal translation of "without" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
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.
Bilingual Context for "無碍"
彼は社長相手にも無碍に自分の意見を述べた。
He freely expressed his opinion even to the president without hesitation.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は ＿＿＿ 新しい挑戦を受け入れた。" (Meaning: "He accepted the new challenge without hesitation.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "躊躇なく" fits here because it means "without hesitation, readily, promptly" in the context of: "He accepted the new challenge without hesitation.". "無碍" represents "without hindrance, without impediment, freely, unreservedly".