Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Pride" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "pride", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
自負
じふ (jifu)
N3 / 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 自負 and 矜持.
In Japanese, 自負 (じふ (jifu)) is typically associated with "pride; self-confidence; self-esteem; boasting one's ability" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to having pride, self-confidence, self-esteem, or boasting high confidence about one's own ability, status, or achievements. Can be used with する as a verb.
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 "自負"
この分野のプロフェッショナルとして、誰にも負けない技術があると_______しています。
As a professional in this field, I pride myself on having skills second to none.
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: "この分野のプロフェッショナルとして、誰にも負けない技術があると_______しています。" (Meaning: "As a professional in this field, I pride myself on having skills second to none.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "自負" fits here because it means "pride; self-confidence; self-esteem; boasting one's ability" in the context of: "As a professional in this field, I pride myself on having skills second to none.". "矜持" represents "pride, self-esteem, self-respect (often with a sense of dignity or honor)".