Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "厳しい", "厳密", "厳格", "峻別"
All represent the core concept "strict", but require precise selection.
Japanese Option A
厳しい
きびしい (kibishii)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option B
厳密
げんみつ (genmitsu)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
厳格
げんかく (genkaku)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
峻別
しゅんべつ (shunbetsu)
N1 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "strict" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "厳しい", "厳密", "厳格", "峻別" based on context.
- 厳しい (きびしい (kibishii) - Level: N4): Maps to "strict; severe; harsh" and is used when An い-adjective describing strictness in rules, people.
- 厳密 (げんみつ (genmitsu) - Level: N2): Maps to "strict, precise, rigorous, exact" and is used when Emphasizes extreme accuracy, adherence to rules, or thoroughness. Often used for scientific definitions, logical arguments, or regulations..
- 厳格 (げんかく (genkaku) - Level: N2): Maps to "strict, severe, rigid, rigorous" and is used when Often used to describe rules, standards, or people's attitudes/personalities that are very firm and allow no deviation. 規則や態度が非常に厳しく、少しの違反も許さない様子を表す。.
- 峻別 (しゅんべつ (shunbetsu) - Level: N1): Maps to "strict distinction, clear differentiation, sharp demarcation" and is used when Emphasizes making a very clear and unambiguous distinction between two or more things, often to avoid confusion or maintain standards. 厳しく区別すること、明確に分類することを指す。.
Context for "厳しい"
私の先生はとても厳しいです。
My teacher is very strict.
Context for "厳密"
厳密な検査を行う。
To conduct a strict inspection.
Context for "厳格"
彼の先生は時間にとても厳格だ。
His teacher is very strict about time.
Context for "峻別"
善悪の峻別は、教育の重要な側面である。
Making a clear distinction between good and evil is an important aspect of education.
Synonym Mastery Challenge
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私の先生はとても ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "My teacher is very strict.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "厳しい" is correct here because it represents "strict; severe; harsh" in the context: "My teacher is very strict.".