Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Humility" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "humility", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
謙遜
けんそん (kenson)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
謙譲
けんじょう (kenjō)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "humility" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 謙遜 and 謙譲.
In Japanese, 謙遜 (けんそん (kenson)) is typically associated with "humility, modesty" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents The act of being modest and not boasting about one's achievements or abilities. It's an important cultural value in Japan..
On the other hand, 謙譲 (けんじょう (kenjō)) maps to "humility, modesty, self-abasement (in language)" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents 自分をへりくだり、相手を立てる態度や言葉遣いを指します。特に日本語では「謙譲語」として、敬語表現の一種であり、相手への敬意を示す重要な方法です。. A literal translation of "humility" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "謙遜"
彼は成功しても常に謙遜の態度を崩さない。
He always maintains a humble attitude even after success.
Bilingual Context for "謙譲"
彼は常に謙譲の姿勢を崩さない。
He always maintains an attitude of humility.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は成功しても常に ＿＿＿ の態度を崩さない。" (Meaning: "He always maintains a humble attitude even after success.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "謙遜" fits here because it means "humility, modesty" in the context of: "He always maintains a humble attitude even after success.". "謙譲" represents "humility, modesty, self-abasement (in language)".