Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Humble" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "humble", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
謙虚
けんきょ (kenkyo)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
拝顔
はいがん (haigan)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "humble" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 謙虚 and 拝顔.
In Japanese, 謙虚 (けんきょ (kenkyo)) is typically associated with "humble, modest" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes a person who is modest and not arrogant, willing to learn from others, and aware of their own limitations..
On the other hand, 拝顔 (はいがん (haigan)) maps to "(humble) seeing (a superior's face); to have the honor of seeing (a superior)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A humble expression referring to the act of seeing or meeting a person of higher status, focusing on seeing their face. Often implies a respectful visit.. A literal translation of "humble" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "謙虚"
彼は成功しても常に謙虚な態度を崩さない。
Even with success, he always maintains a humble attitude.
Bilingual Context for "拝顔"
明日、社長に拝顔する予定です。
I am scheduled to have the honor of seeing the president tomorrow.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は成功しても常に ＿＿＿ な態度を崩さない。" (Meaning: "Even with success, he always maintains a humble attitude.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "謙虚" fits here because it means "humble, modest" in the context of: "Even with success, he always maintains a humble attitude.". "拝顔" represents "(humble) seeing (a superior's face); to have the honor of seeing (a superior)".