synonym Comparative
体裁
VS
建前
Differences Between "体裁" and "建前"
Option A
体裁
Meaning
appearance; decency; public image
Reading
ていさい (teisai)
Syllabus Level
N1
Practical Example
彼は体裁を気にして、いつもきれいにしている。
He is concerned about appearances and always keeps himself tidy.
Option B
建前
Meaning
public facade, official stance, outward appearance (contrasting with honne/true feelings)
Reading
たてまえ (tatemae)
Syllabus Level
N1
Practical Example
彼は建前上は賛成したが、本音では反対だった。
He outwardly agreed, but in his heart, he was against it.
Which one to use?
Select the correct Japanese word for this context
Which word fits this context: "(appearance; decency; public image)"?
🎉 正解 / Correct!
使い分け解説:
- 体裁: Often refers to keeping up appearances or maintaining one's dignity/reputation. Can be negative (e.g., just for show).
- 建前: Refers to the behavior and opinions displayed in public, often for the sake of social harmony or to meet expectations, which may differ from one's true feelings (本音, honne). It's a key concept in Japanese culture regarding social interaction. (社会的な調和や期待に応えるために人前で示す態度や意見。しばしば本心（本音）とは異なる場合がある。)
- 体裁: Often refers to keeping up appearances or maintaining one's dignity/reputation. Can be negative (e.g., just for show).
- 建前: Refers to the behavior and opinions displayed in public, often for the sake of social harmony or to meet expectations, which may differ from one's true feelings (本音, honne). It's a key concept in Japanese culture regarding social interaction. (社会的な調和や期待に応えるために人前で示す態度や意見。しばしば本心（本音）とは異なる場合がある。)
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