Translation guide
The English word "mistake" covers a range of errors, from simple slips to serious blunders. Japanese distinguishes between accidental errors, judgment failures, and misunderstandings, with different words for each nuance.
A minor or unintentional error in action, speech, or writing.
The most common and general word for a mistake or error. Can be used for factual errors, slips, or wrong choices.
それはよくある間違いです。
That's a common mistake.
計算に間違いがあった。
There was a mistake in the calculation.
A loanword from English, often used for minor mistakes, especially in sports, work, or daily life. Sounds casual and modern.
彼は大事な場面でミスをした。
He made a mistake at a crucial moment.
A more formal or written term for an error or mistake, often used in official contexts or when pointing out factual inaccuracies.
この文書には誤りがあります。
There is a mistake in this document.
A significant or foolish mistake, often due to poor judgment.
Refers to a failure or blunder, often with a sense of personal responsibility. Used for mistakes in plans, projects, or life choices.
それは大きな失敗だった。
That was a big mistake.
失敗から学ぶことが大切だ。
It's important to learn from your mistakes.
A more literary or formal term for a mistake, often implying moral error or regret. Used in serious contexts.
A mistake arising from misinterpreting something.
A mistake based on a wrong assumption or misunderstanding. Very common in daily conversation.
それは君の勘違いだよ。
That's your mistake (you misunderstood).
日付を勘違いしていた。
I was mistaken about the date.
A mistake in writing, typing, or data entry.
Specifically a kanji or character mistake in writing.
レポートに誤字があった。
There was a typo in the report.
An omission of a character or word; a missing character mistake.
A typographical error, especially in printed materials. Used in publishing contexts.
間違い (machigai) is a general error or slip, often correctable. 失敗 (shippai) implies a failure with consequences, like a failed attempt. Use 間違い for factual mistakes and 失敗 for personal blunders.
テストで間違いを直す。
Correct mistakes on a test.
事業に失敗する。
Fail in business (make a business mistake).
While ミス (misu) is common, it can sound too casual or business-jargon-like in formal writing. In formal contexts, prefer 誤り or 間違い.
過去の過ちを繰り返してはいけない。
You must not repeat past mistakes.
Similar to 勘違い, but emphasizes a mistaken belief or assumption. Slightly more formal.
それは私の思い違いでした。
That was my mistake (I was under a wrong impression).
This text has many omissions (missing characters).
Several typos were found in the first edition.