Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Sincere" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "sincere", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
誠実
せいじつ (seijitsu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
真摯
しんし (shinshi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "sincere" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 誠実 and 真摯.
In Japanese, 誠実 (せいじつ (seijitsu)) is typically associated with "sincere, honest, faithful" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes a person who is honest, trustworthy, and sincere in their words and actions..
On the other hand, 真摯 (しんし (shinshi)) maps to "sincere, earnest, serious" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 物事に対する態度が真面目で、偽りがない様子を表す。仕事や研究など、真剣に取り組むべき状況で使われることが多い。. A literal translation of "sincere" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "誠実"
彼は仕事に誠実で、誰からも信頼されている。
He is sincere in his work and trusted by everyone.
Bilingual Context for "真摯"
彼はどんな仕事にも真摯な態度で取り組む。
He approaches any task with a sincere attitude.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は仕事に ＿＿＿ で、誰からも信頼されている。" (Meaning: "He is sincere in his work and trusted by everyone.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "誠実" fits here because it means "sincere, honest, faithful" in the context of: "He is sincere in his work and trusted by everyone.". "真摯" represents "sincere, earnest, serious".