Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Pride" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "pride", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
誇り
ほこり (hokori)
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 誇り and 矜持.
In Japanese, 誇り (ほこり (hokori)) is typically associated with "pride, boast" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents This word refers to a feeling of pride or honor, often for one's achievements, group, or country. It can be a positive sense of dignity..
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 "誇り"
彼は自分の仕事に誇りを持っている。
He takes pride in his work.
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: "彼は自分の仕事に ＿＿＿ を持っている。" (Meaning: "He takes pride in his work.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "誇り" fits here because it means "pride, boast" in the context of: "He takes pride in his work.". "矜持" represents "pride, self-esteem, self-respect (often with a sense of dignity or honor)".