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synonym Comparative
申し訳ない
VS
なごむ

Differences Between "申し訳ない" and "なごむ"

Option A
申し訳ない
Meaning
I'm sorry; inexcusable; I feel bad (used when one has caused trouble or inconvenience)
Reading
もうしわけない (moushiwakenai)
Syllabus Level
N2
Practical Example
ご迷惑をおかけして、本当に申し訳ありません。
I am truly sorry for causing you trouble.
Option B
なごむ
Meaning
to soften, to calm down, to feel at peace, to relax
Reading
なごむ (nagomu)
Syllabus Level
N2
Practical Example
温泉に入ると心が和む。
When I enter a hot spring, my heart feels at peace.

Which one to use?

Select the correct Japanese word for this context

Which word fits this context: "(I'm sorry; inexcusable; I feel bad (used when one has caused trouble or inconvenience))"?
🎉 正解 / Correct!
使い分け解説:
- 申し訳ない: A polite and somewhat formal expression of apology, often stronger than すみません. It implies that there is no excuse for one's actions or the situation.
- なごむ: Describes a feeling of relaxation, comfort, and peace, often in response to a pleasant atmosphere or situation. Can be transitive (和ませる) or intransitive (和む).
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