Translation guide
The English verb 'brag' means to talk proudly about your achievements, possessions, or abilities in a way that annoys others. Japanese has several ways to express this, from direct verbs to more indirect phrases. The most common and natural way is 自慢する (jiman suru), but the best choice depends on context and nuance.
To talk proudly about something you have or did, often in an annoying way.
The most common and direct translation. It can be used for both positive and negative boasting, but often carries a slightly negative nuance when overdone.
He's always bragging about his car.
Stop bragging about your test scores.
Literally 'to do a boastful story'. Used when someone goes on and on about their achievements.
I'm sick of his bragging.
A more formal or literary word meaning 'to take pride in' or 'to boast of'. Often used in written language or formal speeches.
This town boasts beautiful nature.
Means 'to act bossy' or 'to throw one's weight around'. It implies bragging through arrogant behavior rather than just words.
He started bragging and acting all high and mighty after his promotion.
To display or talk about possessions in a way that seeks admiration or envy.
To show off something, often material possessions, in a way that is clearly meant to impress or make others jealous.
She was showing off her new ring.
Similar to 見せびらかす, but often used for knowledge, skills, or status rather than physical objects.
To boast in a subtle or roundabout way, often by downplaying or complaining.
A common Japanese communication pattern where one boasts while pretending to be humble. Often involves phrases like 「大したことないけど」 (it's nothing special) before stating an achievement.
It's no big deal, but actually I won the contest.
To brag by complaining, e.g., 'I'm so tired from working overtime every day because I'm the top performer.'
To boast about a family member or close associate's achievements.
A self-deprecating term for a parent who dotes on and boasts about their child. Often used in the phrase 親バカです (I'm a doting parent).
Sorry for bragging about my kid so much; I'm just a doting parent.
Literally 'my proud son', used when boasting about one's son.
This is my son, whom I'm very proud of.
While 自慢する is the standard translation, using it too directly can sound arrogant in Japanese culture, where modesty is valued. Often, it's more natural to express pride indirectly or with humble phrasing.
Thanks to you, it went well. (humble way to imply success without bragging)
自慢 can be attached to nouns to mean 'something one is proud of', e.g., 自慢の料理 (one's proud dish), 自慢の作品 (one's proud work). This is a common and natural way to express pride without using a verb.
He likes to show off his knowledge.
I'm exhausted from overtime every day. I mean, I'm the top performer, so...