Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Pride" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "pride", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
自慢
じまん (jiman)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
矜持
きょうじ (kyōji)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "pride" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 自慢 and 矜持.
In Japanese, 自慢 (じまん (jiman)) is typically associated with "pride, boast, brag" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Can be used positively to express pride in one's own or something related to oneself, or negatively to describe excessive boasting..
On the other hand, 矜持 (きょうじ (kyōji)) maps to "pride, self-esteem, self-respect (often with a sense of dignity or honor)" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Refers to a sense of self-respect or pride that comes from one's abilities, achievements, or position, often implying dignity and an unwillingness to compromise one's principles.. A literal translation of "pride" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "自慢"
彼はいつも自分の車の性能を自慢している。
He is always boasting about the performance of his car.
Bilingual Context for "矜持"
彼は職人としての矜持を持って仕事に取り組んだ。
He approached his work with the pride of a craftsman.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼はいつも自分の車の性能を ＿＿＿ している。" (Meaning: "He is always boasting about the performance of his car.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "自慢" fits here because it means "pride, boast, brag" in the context of: "He is always boasting about the performance of his car.". "矜持" represents "pride, self-esteem, self-respect (often with a sense of dignity or honor)".