How to say "breakthrough" in Japanese

• 突破とっぱJLPT N1approx.Common
  noun, suru verb, transitive verbCovers breakthrough as the act of breaking or forcing through something — a barrier, defense line, or obstacle, physical or figurative. The emphasis is on overcoming resistance, not on a novel idea.
• 新機軸しんきじくCommon
  nounCovers breakthrough in the sense of a new departure or innovation — a fresh approach or idea that marks a milestone. It names the novel development itself, not the act of forcing through an obstacle.

Use 突破 for a breakthrough as the act of forcing through a barrier or obstacle, and 新機軸 for a breakthrough as a new departure or innovation; the former is about overcoming, the latter about novelty.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• 突破とっぱbreaking through
• 新機軸しんきじくinnovation
• 突破口とっぱこうbreakthrough (research, etc.)
• 大発見だいはっけんbreakthrough
• ブレークスルーbreakthrough
• 破過はかbreakthrough (of a contaminant through a respirator cartridge, etc.)