Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Sincerity" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "sincerity", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
誠実
せいじつ (seijitsu)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
誠意
せいい (seii)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "sincerity" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 誠実 and 誠意.
In Japanese, 誠実 (せいじつ (seijitsu)) is typically associated with "sincerity; honesty; faithfulness" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to being sincere, honest, faithful, and serious in character or attitude. Often used as 誠実な人.
On the other hand, 誠意 (せいい (seii)) maps to "sincerity; good faith; honest intention" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to sincerity, good faith, or honest intentions. Often used as 誠意を見せる. A literal translation of "sincerity" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "誠実"
どんな困難な状況でも、顧客に対して常に_______に対応する姿勢が大切です。
In any difficult situation, the attitude of always dealing with clients with sincerity is important.
Bilingual Context for "誠意"
どれだけ言葉を尽くしても、行動に_______が伴わなければ、相手の信頼を得ることはできません。
No matter how many words you use, unless sincerity accompanies your actions, you cannot gain another's trust.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "どんな困難な状況でも、顧客に対して常に_______に対応する姿勢が大切です。" (Meaning: "In any difficult situation, the attitude of always dealing with clients with sincerity is important.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "誠実" fits here because it means "sincerity; honesty; faithfulness" in the context of: "In any difficult situation, the attitude of always dealing with clients with sincerity is important.". "誠意" represents "sincerity; good faith; honest intention".