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
誇る
ほこる (hokoru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "pride" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 自負 and 誇る.
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, 誇る (ほこる (hokoru)) maps to "pride oneself on; boast of; be proud of; tower proudly" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to priding oneself on ability/achievements, boasting of something outstanding, or towering proudly. 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 "誇る"
この美術館は、世界最大規模の印象派のコレクションを_______、毎年多くの観光客が訪れます。
This art museum boasts one of the world's largest collections of Impressionist paintings, visited by many tourists every year.
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.". "誇る" represents "pride oneself on; boast of; be proud of; tower proudly".