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
自負
じふ (jifu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "pride" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 誇り and 自負.
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, 自負 (じふ (jifu)) maps to "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. 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 "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.
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.". "自負" represents "pride; self-confidence; self-esteem; boasting one's ability".