Translation guide
The English word "bearing" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: physical posture/demeanor, directional orientation, relevance/connection, and mechanical parts. Each meaning requires different Japanese expressions.
The way someone carries themselves, their physical stance or overall manner.
General word for attitude or demeanor, often used for someone's bearing or manner.
He had a dignified bearing.
Refers specifically to one's manner or bearing, often implying politeness and grace.
She has a very refined bearing.
Focuses on physical movement and carriage; how one moves their body.
The dancer's bearing is beautiful.
Literally 'posture', but can extend to one's mental attitude or stance. More physical than '態度'.
You can sense confidence from his bearing.
The direction or position of something relative to a reference point, often used in navigation.
Compass direction; used when asking or stating which way something is.
Please proceed in this bearing.
Direction or bearing, often used in technical or navigational contexts.
General word for direction; can be used for bearing but is broader.
Pattern meaning 'in the direction of ~'. Use with a compass point or landmark.
You can see a mountain on a northerly bearing.
Having a relation or connection to something; often used in phrases like 'have a bearing on'.
A machine part that supports and reduces friction between moving parts, like a ball bearing.
The English word 'bearing' covers many concepts that have distinct Japanese words. Using a single Japanese word for all meanings will cause confusion. Always identify the intended meaning first.
態度 (taido) is general attitude/demeanor. 物腰 (monogoshi) emphasizes polite, graceful manner. 姿勢 (shisei) is more about physical posture but can be metaphorical. For 'bearing' as in how someone carries themselves, 態度 is the safest choice.
She walked with a confident bearing.
The ship maintained a steady bearing.
His past actions have no bearing on this case.
Check the ship's bearing.
風の方向が変わった。
The wind changed its bearing.
His opinion had a bearing on the decision.
That issue has a bearing on our discussion.
軸受の交換をしなければならない。
We have to replace the bearing.