There are many synonyms in Japanese because the Japanese language draws from several different languages for loanwords, notably Chinese and English, as well as its own native words.^[1] In Japanese, synonyms are called dōgigo (kanji: 同義語) or ruigigo (kanji: 類義語).^[2]

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Full synonymy, however, is rare. In general, native Japanese words may have broader meanings than those that are borrowed, Sino-Japanese words tend to suggest a more formal tone, while Western borrowed words more modern.^[1]

The table below compares native Japanese words, inherited from Old Japanese – yamato kotoba – with words borrowed from Chinese – kango – and loanwords from other languages – gairaigo.