Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Worship" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "worship", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
崇める
あがめる (agameru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
崇拝
すうはい (sūhai)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "worship" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 崇める and 崇拝.
In Japanese, 崇める (あがめる (agameru)) is typically associated with "worship; revere; deify; exalt; hold in high regard" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to worshiping, revering, deifying, or exalting someone or something as a god or supreme existence. Often used as 神と崇める.
On the other hand, 崇拝 (すうはい (sūhai)) maps to "worship, adoration, reverence" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to deep reverence and adoration for a deity, sacred object, or sometimes a highly admired person. 神や仏、あるいは特定の人物などを深く敬い、尊ぶことを指します。. A literal translation of "worship" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "崇める"
古代の人々は、太陽や巨大な山を神として_______、豊かな収穫を祈りました。
Ancient people worshiped the sun and giant mountains as gods, praying for a bountiful harvest.
Bilingual Context for "崇拝"
古代の人々は太陽を神として崇拝していた。
Ancient people worshipped the sun as a god.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "古代の人々は、太陽や巨大な山を神として_______、豊かな収穫を祈りました。" (Meaning: "Ancient people worshiped the sun and giant mountains as gods, praying for a bountiful harvest.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "崇める" fits here because it means "worship; revere; deify; exalt; hold in high regard" in the context of: "Ancient people worshiped the sun and giant mountains as gods, praying for a bountiful harvest.". "崇拝" represents "worship, adoration, reverence".