How to say "discriminate" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- ichidan verb, transitive verbCovers 'discriminate' in the sense of discerning — telling right from wrong or what is fitting through sound judgment. As the common word of this set, it is the usual choice for this meaning.
- 相手を選ぶあいてをえらぶexpression, godan verbMatches 'discriminate' when it means selecting targets or victims rather than judging merit — literally choosing one's opponent or partner. Frequently seen in the negative, as when a danger or attacker 'doesn't discriminate'.
- 優劣をつけるゆうれつをつけるexpression, ichidan verbCovers 'discriminate (between)' in the evaluative sense of ranking things — deciding which is better or worse and putting one above the other. Think of weighing two options and judging their relative worth.
- 弁ずるべんずるichidan verb (-zuru)Seldom the word you want for 'discriminate': its main senses are to manage, dispose of, or carry something through, with 'distinguish' only a secondary sense. Learners who meet it usually need the management meaning.
- 弁じるべんじるichidan verb, intransitive verbNot really a way to say 'discriminate': its senses are to speak, talk, or argue, and to manage. This is seldom the word you want for any sense of the English verb.
Use 「わきまえる」 for discerning right from wrong, 「相手を選ぶ」 for picking targets or victims, and 「優劣をつける」 for ranking; 「弁ずる」 and 「弁じる」 are uncommon verbs whose main senses lie elsewhere.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
