Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "True" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "true", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
本音
ほんね (honne)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
真価
しんか (shinka)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "true" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 本音 and 真価.
In Japanese, 本音 (ほんね (honne)) is typically associated with "true feelings; real intention; private opinion; real talk" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to one's true feelings, real intentions, private opinions, or real talk, as opposed to 建前.
On the other hand, 真価 (しんか (shinka)) maps to "true worth, true value, real value" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to the actual, inherent value or capability of something or someone, which may not be immediately obvious. Often revealed in challenging situations.. A literal translation of "true" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "本音"
お酒の席で同僚と語り合ううちに、日頃は言えない会社の不満や_______が次々と飛び出しました。
While chatting with colleagues at a drinking seat, company complaints and true feelings that cannot usually be said popped out one after another.
Bilingual Context for "真価"
彼の真価は危機的状況でこそ発揮される。
His true worth is displayed in critical situations.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "お酒の席で同僚と語り合ううちに、日頃は言えない会社の不満や_______が次々と飛び出しました。" (Meaning: "While chatting with colleagues at a drinking seat, company complaints and true feelings that cannot usually be said popped out one after another.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "本音" fits here because it means "true feelings; real intention; private opinion; real talk" in the context of: "While chatting with colleagues at a drinking seat, company complaints and true feelings that cannot usually be said popped out one after another.". "真価" represents "true worth, true value, real value".