Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Dignity" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "dignity", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
威厳
いげん (igen)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
沽券
こけん (koken)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "dignity" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 威厳 and 沽券.
In Japanese, 威厳 (いげん (igen)) is typically associated with "dignity; majesty; gravity; solemn presence; aura of authority" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to dignity, majesty, gravity, or a solemn presence that commands respect automatically. Often used as 威厳を保つ.
On the other hand, 沽券 (こけん (koken)) maps to "dignity; reputation; honor; face" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Refers to one's honor, dignity, or reputation. Often used in phrases like 「沽券に関わる. A literal translation of "dignity" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "威厳"
裁判官は法廷の秩序と_______を保つために、私語を繰り返す傍聴人に対して厳しい注意を与えました。
To maintain the order and dignity of the courtroom, the judge gave a strict warning to the spectator who repeatedly whispered.
Bilingual Context for "沽券"
そんなことをすれば、会社の沽券に関わる問題になるだろう。
If you do something like that, it will become an issue that affects the company's reputation.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "裁判官は法廷の秩序と_______を保つために、私語を繰り返す傍聴人に対して厳しい注意を与えました。" (Meaning: "To maintain the order and dignity of the courtroom, the judge gave a strict warning to the spectator who repeatedly whispered.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "威厳" fits here because it means "dignity; majesty; gravity; solemn presence; aura of authority" in the context of: "To maintain the order and dignity of the courtroom, the judge gave a strict warning to the spectator who repeatedly whispered.". "沽券" represents "dignity; reputation; honor; face".