違う

chigau
adjectiveBeginner
formalinformal

to be different; to differ

この本は前の本と違う

This book is different from the previous one.

意見が違う

Our opinions differ.

informal

to be wrong; to be incorrect

答えが違う

The answer is wrong.

あなたの考え方は違う

Your way of thinking is wrong.

Collocations

違う意見different opinion違う考えdifferent idea違う方法different method

Synonyms

Antonyms

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

'違う' is a versatile word that can mean both 'different' and 'wrong' depending on the context. Pay attention to the surrounding words to determine the correct meaning.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

In formal contexts, '違う' is often used to describe differences, while in informal contexts, it can be used to correct someone or express disagreement.

📝Usage Notes

The verb '違う' is often used in casual conversation to express disagreement or to point out differences. It can also be used to indicate that something is incorrect.

Noted on May 2, 2026JAEN