synonym Comparative
結構
VS
申し訳ない
Differences Between "結構" and "申し訳ない"
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
申し訳ない
Meaning
I'm sorry, I apologize (very polite)
Reading
もうしわけない (moushiwakenai)
Syllabus Level
N3
Practical Example
ご迷惑をおかけして大変申し訳ありません。
I am terribly sorry for causing you inconvenience.
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).
- 申し訳ない: A very formal and strong expression of apology or regret, indicating that there is no excuse for one's actions. More formal and often used in serious situations than すみません.
- 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).
- 申し訳ない: A very formal and strong expression of apology or regret, indicating that there is no excuse for one's actions. More formal and often used in serious situations than すみません.
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