synonym Comparative
つかの間
VS
とっさ
Differences Between "つかの間" and "とっさ"
Option A
つかの間
Meaning
a brief moment, a short while, a fleeting instant
Reading
つかのま (tsukanoma)
Syllabus Level
N2
Practical Example
激しい雨はつかの間にやんで、空に虹がかかった。
The heavy rain stopped for a brief moment, and a rainbow appeared in the sky.
Option B
とっさ
Meaning
instantaneously, in an instant, on the spur of the moment
Reading
とっさ (tossa)
Syllabus Level
N2
Practical Example
ボールが飛んできたので、とっさに手で受け止めた。
A ball came flying, so I caught it instantly with my hand.
Which one to use?
Select the correct Japanese word for this context
Which word fits this context: "(a brief moment, a short while, a fleeting instant)"?
🎉 正解 / Correct!
使い分け解説:
- つかの間: Emphasizes the very short duration or transient nature of something. Often used with 'の' to modify a noun (e.g., つかの間の休息) or adverbially (つかの間、静かになった).
- とっさ: Describes an action or reaction performed immediately and without conscious thought in response to a sudden event. Often used with 「とっさの判断 (tossa no handan)」 (instantaneous decision) or 「とっさの行動 (tossa no kōdō)」 (instantaneous action).
- つかの間: Emphasizes the very short duration or transient nature of something. Often used with 'の' to modify a noun (e.g., つかの間の休息) or adverbially (つかの間、静かになった).
- とっさ: Describes an action or reaction performed immediately and without conscious thought in response to a sudden event. Often used with 「とっさの判断 (tossa no handan)」 (instantaneous decision) or 「とっさの行動 (tossa no kōdō)」 (instantaneous action).
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