Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Work" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "work", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
勤める
つとめる (tsutomeru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
作品
さくひん (sakuhin)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "work" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 勤める and 作品.
In Japanese, 勤める (つとめる (tsutomeru)) is typically associated with "to work for; to be employed at; to serve" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents This verb specifically means 'to be employed at' or 'to work for' a company, organization, or in a specific role. It emphasizes the act of serving or being engaged in a profession, often used with the particle に or で. It differs from 働く.
On the other hand, 作品 (さくひん (sakuhin)) maps to "work (of art, literature, etc.), creation" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to something created by an artist, writer, musician, craftsman, etc., such as a painting, novel, film, or piece of music. It carries a sense of artistic or creative merit.. A literal translation of "work" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "勤める"
彼は銀行に勤めています。
He works for a bank.
Bilingual Context for "作品"
この美術館には有名な画家の作品がたくさんあります。
This museum has many works by famous painters.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は銀行に勤めています。" (Meaning: "He works for a bank.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "勤める" fits here because it means "to work for; to be employed at; to serve" in the context of: "He works for a bank.". "作品" represents "work (of art, literature, etc.), creation".