synonym Comparative
言い訳
VS
恐縮
Differences Between "言い訳" and "恐縮"
Option A
言い訳
Meaning
excuse, explanation
Reading
いいわけ (iiwake)
Syllabus Level
N3
Practical Example
彼はいつも言い訳ばかりしている。
He's always making excuses.
Option B
恐縮
Meaning
thank you very much; excuse me for troubling you; I am sorry; I feel awful
Reading
きょうしゅく (kyoushuku)
Syllabus Level
N2
Practical Example
お忙しいところ恐縮ですが、少々お時間をいただけますでしょうか。
I'm sorry to trouble you when you're busy, but could I have a moment of your time?
Which one to use?
Select the correct Japanese word for this context
Which word fits this context: "(excuse, explanation)"?
🎉 正解 / Correct!
使い分け解説:
- 言い訳: Often used for giving reasons to avoid responsibility or for a minor mistake. Can have a negative connotation. (責任を逃れるためや、小さな間違いに対して理由を述べる際に使われます。否定的なニュアンスを含むことがあります。)
- 恐縮: A polite expression used to show gratitude, apologize, or express a feeling of being burdened or sorry, especially when asking for a favor or receiving something. Formal. 感謝、謝罪、または特に何かを頼む際や受け取る際に、恐縮している気持ちを表す丁寧な表現です。フォーマルな場面で使われます。
- 言い訳: Often used for giving reasons to avoid responsibility or for a minor mistake. Can have a negative connotation. (責任を逃れるためや、小さな間違いに対して理由を述べる際に使われます。否定的なニュアンスを含むことがあります。)
- 恐縮: A polite expression used to show gratitude, apologize, or express a feeling of being burdened or sorry, especially when asking for a favor or receiving something. Formal. 感謝、謝罪、または特に何かを頼む際や受け取る際に、恐縮している気持ちを表す丁寧な表現です。フォーマルな場面で使われます。
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