How to say "method" in Japanese

Choosing the right word
  • 方法ほうほうJLPT N3approx.Common
    nounThe most general word for 'method': a way, manner, or process of doing something. It is the safe choice when you simply mean a way of studying, cooking, or solving a problem.
    これが、私が英語えいごを勉強べんきょうした方法ほうほうだ。↗
    This is how I learned English.
  • 仕様しようJLPT N1approx.Common
    nounChiefly a technical term for the specifications of a product, machine, or piece of software. For an ordinary method or way of doing something, it is seldom the word you want.
  • 仕方しかたJLPT N4approx.Common
    nounCovers 'way' in the sense of how something is done — the manner of an action or task. It overlaps closely with 方法, the general word for 'method'.
    あなたはチェスの仕方しかたを知しっていますか。↗
    Do you know how to play chess?
  • 手法しゅほうJLPT N1approx.Common
    nounCovers 'method' in the sense of a technique — a way of doing something in a specialized field such as research, business, or the arts. Choose it for the methods professionals use.
    彼かれの手法しゅほうは全まったく驚おどろくべきものだった。↗
    His technique was absolutely amazing.
  • 方式ほうしきJLPT N1approx.Common
    nounCovers 'method' in the sense of a fixed system or established form — a defined way of doing things such as a payment scheme. It suggests a set structure rather than a personal manner.
    彼かれは新あたらしい方式ほうしきを編み出あみだした。↗
    He worked out a new formula.

Use 方法 for a general way of doing something, 仕方 for the manner in which something is done, 手法 for techniques in professional fields, 方式 for fixed systems or formats, and 仕様 chiefly for technical specifications.

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

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JLPT vocabulary levels are community estimates, not official (no official lists have been published since the 2010 revision).

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