Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Without" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "without", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
遠慮なく
えんりょなく (enryo naku)
N4 / 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 遠慮なく and 躊躇なく.
In Japanese, 遠慮なく (えんりょなく (enryo naku)) is typically associated with "without hesitation, without reserve, feel free to" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used to encourage someone to act freely, without holding back due to politeness or consideration for others. Often precedes an action or request..
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 "遠慮なく"
何か質問があれば、遠慮なく聞いてください。
If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.
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: "何か質問があれば、 ＿＿＿ 聞いてください。" (Meaning: "If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "遠慮なく" fits here because it means "without hesitation, without reserve, feel free to" in the context of: "If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.". "躊躇なく" represents "without hesitation, readily, promptly".