Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Honor" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "honor", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
名誉
めいよ (meiyo)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
面目
めんぼく (menboku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "honor" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 名誉 and 面目.
In Japanese, 名誉 (めいよ (meiyo)) is typically associated with "honor; prestige; credit; glory; high reputation" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to honor, prestige, credit, glory, or a high reputation awarded for brilliant achievements or noble character. Often used as 名誉ある.
On the other hand, 面目 (めんぼく (menboku)) maps to "honor, reputation, dignity, face (as in 'lose face')" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to one's honor, dignity, or good name, especially in front of others. Often used in phrases like 面目を保つ. A literal translation of "honor" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "名誉"
ノーベル賞を受賞することは、世界中の科学者にとって生涯における最大の_______です。
Winning the Nobel Prize is the greatest honor in a lifetime for scientists around the world.
Bilingual Context for "面目"
彼の失敗で会社は面目を失った。
The company lost face due to his failure.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "ノーベル賞を受賞することは、世界中の科学者にとって生涯における最大の_______です。" (Meaning: "Winning the Nobel Prize is the greatest honor in a lifetime for scientists around the world.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "名誉" fits here because it means "honor; prestige; credit; glory; high reputation" in the context of: "Winning the Nobel Prize is the greatest honor in a lifetime for scientists around the world.". "面目" represents "honor, reputation, dignity, face (as in 'lose face')".