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
貫禄
かんろく (kanroku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "dignity" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 威厳 and 貫禄.
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, 貫禄 (かんろく (kanroku)) maps to "dignity, presence, impressiveness" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the dignified and imposing presence or bearing of a person, often someone with experience, authority, or high status.. 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 "貫禄"
社長にはさすがに貫禄がある。
As expected, the company president has a dignified presence.
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.". "貫禄" represents "dignity, presence, impressiveness".