Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Worry" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "worry", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
なやむ
なやむ (nayamu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
案じる
あんじる (anjiru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "worry" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between なやむ and 案じる.
In Japanese, なやむ (なやむ (nayamu)) is typically associated with "to worry, to be troubled, to be distressed" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Intransitive verb. Describes experiencing mental distress, anxiety, or difficulty in making a decision. Often followed by 〜に悩む.
On the other hand, 案じる (あんじる (anjiru)) maps to "to worry, to be anxious about, to be concerned about" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used in slightly more formal or written contexts than 心配する. A literal translation of "worry" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "なやむ"
彼は仕事のことで深く悩んでいる。
He is deeply troubled by his work.
Bilingual Context for "案じる"
彼は子供の将来を深く案じている。
He is deeply concerned about his child's future.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は仕事のことで深く悩んでいる。" (Meaning: "He is deeply troubled by his work.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "なやむ" fits here because it means "to worry, to be troubled, to be distressed" in the context of: "He is deeply troubled by his work.". "案じる" represents "to worry, to be anxious about, to be concerned about".