synonym Comparative
結構
VS
恐縮
Differences Between "結構" and "恐縮"
Option A
結構
Meaning
quite; rather; good enough; fine; splendid; (polite decline) No, thank you.
Reading
けっこう (kekkō)
Syllabus Level
N3
Practical Example
1. コーヒー、いかがですか？
いいえ、結構です。
2. この映画は結構面白かったですよ。
3. それで結構です。もっとたくさんはいりません。
1. Would you like some coffee?
No, thank you. (Politely declining)
2. This movie was quite interesting.
3. That's fine/enough. I don't need any more.
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: "(quite; rather; good enough; fine; splendid; (polite decline) No, thank you.)"?
🎉 正解 / Correct!
使い分け解説:
- 結構: This word has multiple meanings depending on context and intonation. It can indicate 'quite' or 'rather' (expressing degree), 'good enough' or 'fine' (assessing suitability), or it can be used to politely decline an offer (いいえ、結構です - No, thank you).
- 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。
- 結構: This word has multiple meanings depending on context and intonation. It can indicate 'quite' or 'rather' (expressing degree), 'good enough' or 'fine' (assessing suitability), or it can be used to politely decline an offer (いいえ、結構です - No, thank you).
- 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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