Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Personality" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "personality", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
性格
せいかく (seikaku)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
人柄
ひとがら (hitogara)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "personality" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 性格 and 人柄.
In Japanese, 性格 (せいかく (seikaku)) is typically associated with "personality, character" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Used to describe a person's inherent traits and disposition. Can be good.
On the other hand, 人柄 (ひとがら (hitogara)) maps to "personality, character, disposition" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Primarily refers to one's character, temperament, or disposition, often with a nuance of describing someone's overall good nature or commendable qualities. Less commonly refers to physical appearance.. A literal translation of "personality" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "性格"
彼女は明るい性格です。
She has a cheerful personality.
Bilingual Context for "人柄"
彼は人柄が良いので皆に慕われている。
He is respected by everyone because of his good character.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼女は明るい ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "She has a cheerful personality.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "性格" fits here because it means "personality, character" in the context of: "She has a cheerful personality.". "人柄" represents "personality, character, disposition".