N3
たてまえ (tatemae)
建前
public face; official stance; public stance; excuses
💡 Nuance & Usage:
Refers to a public face, official stance, public stance, or excuses one presents to maintain social order/politeness, as opposed to 本音 (true feelings). ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Public face! Stop using public face and professional excuses to avoid holding my hand! We are off the clock right now! Throw away your excuses!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『建前？！『上司と部下の関係ですから…』なんて建前はね、会社の外では一切通用しないのよ！黙って私の肩を引き寄せて、恋人としての本音を見せなさいよ！』
📝 Example Sentences
大人の世界では、円滑な関係を保つために本音と_______を使い分けることがしばしば求められます。
In the adult world, it is often required to use true feelings and public faces differently to maintain smooth relationships.
Practice Quiz
Test your understanding of "建前"!
彼のその説明はあくまでも公式の_______であり、社内の実情はまったく違っていました。
🎉 正解 / Correct!
日本語: 表向きの公式な立場「建前」が正解です。ハルカ部長：『公式の建前ね。でもね、私のあんたへの「ただの部下の指導よ！」っていう建前も、そろそろ本音（愛）に切り替えてあげてもいいわよ？』
English: Since it represents the official public stance, 'public face/official stance' (tatemae) is correct. Haruka: 'Official public stance. But you know, that public stance of mine toward you "It's just subordinate guidance!" might be switched to true feelings (love) pretty soon, okay?'
English: Since it represents the official public stance, 'public face/official stance' (tatemae) is correct. Haruka: 'Official public stance. But you know, that public stance of mine toward you "It's just subordinate guidance!" might be switched to true feelings (love) pretty soon, okay?'
🦅
Want to pass the JLPT exam?
Project Eagle analyzes your personal weaknesses using advanced AI. Practice thousands of N5 to N1 questions completely for free!