JLPT N1・N3 Vocabulary – Difference between “手法” and “方法”
Table of Contents
1. Difference between “手法” and “方法“
2. 手法
3. 方法
4. Let’s Compare
5. Summary
6. Quiz
7. Similar Articles
8. Comment
Q: What is the difference between “手法” and “方法“?
A: Both refer to ways of doing things, but they have distinct meanings and usages.
手法 (JLPT N1)
[Meaning]
Among different ways of doing things, “手法” specifically refers to specialized techniques or unique methods. It is often used in fields such as art, craftsmanship, research, and development.
[Examples]
この焼き物は、長く受け継がれてきた手法を用いて作られています。
This pottery is made using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations.
この絵は、力強い描き方と鮮やかな色使いの手法が特徴的です。
This painting is characterized by bold brushstrokes and vibrant color techniques.
Unlike general methods, “手法” refers to specialized and distinctive techniques or approaches. It is particularly used for craftsmanship, professional skills, and artistic expressions.
[Examples]
九谷焼の手法は、絵画と陶芸が融合したような美しい仕上がりを生み出します。
The techniques of Kutani ware create a beautiful finish that blends painting and ceramics.
⇒ Refers to the artistic techniques used in Kutani ware.
ゴッホには独特な色彩や細かな筆の使い方などの手法が見られます。
Van Gogh’s techniques can be seen in his unique use of colors and fine brushwork.
⇒ It refers to Van Gogh’s unique artistic techniques.
方法 (JLPT N3)
[Meaning]
Refers to a general way or means to achieve a goal or accomplish a task. It is widely used in daily life and business settings.
[Examples]
勉強の方法を変えたら、成績が良くなりました。
I improved my grades after changing my study method.
A：「全然、痩せないんです。」
B：「ダイエットの方法を変えてみたらどうですか。」
A: “I can’t lose weight at all.”
B: “Why don’t you try changing your dieting method?”
“方法” refers to a general method or approach for achieving a goal or carrying out a task. Unlike specialized techniques, it is a broad concept used in everyday situations rather than professional skills.
[Examples]
駅に早く到着する方法を考えました。
I thought of a way to arrive at the station quickly.
⇒ Refers to a means of getting to the station faster.
景色をうまく撮る方法を姉に教えてもらいました。
My sister taught me a method to take good pictures of the scenery.
⇒ Since this refers to a general way of taking photos rather than a professional technique, “方法” is appropriate.
Let’s Compare
“手法” and “方法” both mean “way of doing something,” but their usage differs depending on specialization and generality.
[Examples]
◯この陶芸作品は、伝統的な手法で作られています。
This pottery work was created using traditional techniques.
× この陶芸作品は、伝統的な方法で作られています。
This pottery work was created using traditional methods.
Since “手法” refers to specialized techniques or unique methods in a particular field, it is appropriate in this case. On the other hand, “方法” refers to a general way of doing something, making it less natural in this context.
Now, which one is more suitable in the following case?
[Examples]
効率的な学習の手法を研究しています。
I am researching efficient learning techniques.
効率的な学習の方法を研究しています。
I am researching efficient learning methods.
Since “手法” implies specialized techniques or unique approaches, “学習の手法” suggests specific learning techniques. In contrast, “方法” refers to general means of learning, making it more appropriate when discussing learning methods in a broader sense.
Summary
[手法]
- It refers to specialized techniques or unique methods, rather than general approaches. It is particularly used for skills in craftsmanship, professional expertise, and artistic creation methods.
[方法]
- It refers to general ways of doing things, rather than specialized techniques. It is broadly used in daily life, business, and as a means to achieve goals or solve problems.
Quiz
Read the following sentence and choose the expression that fits the context from the options provided in the parentheses.
Click on the question to check the answer.
A. 手法
この作品は、この作家らしい手法で描かれています。
This artwork is drawn using the unique technique of this artist.
*Since it refers to the artist’s special way of expression, “手法” is appropriate.
A. 方法
いつもの方法でやったのに、今日は上手くできませんでした。
I did it the usual way, but today it didn’t go well.
*”いつもの” implies a general approach, so “方法” is the correct choice.
A. 手法
この映画は、監督の独特な手法によって撮影されました。
This movie was filmed using the director’s unique technique.
*Since it refers to the director’s specific techniques and filming style, “手法” is appropriate.
A. 方法
効果的なタイムマネジメントの方法を学びたいです。
I want to learn effective time management method.
*”方法” is appropriate because it refers to general strategies for managing time.
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