Translation guide
The English word "cant" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: hypocritical talk, specialized jargon, and a sloping surface.
To express the idea of moralistic or pious talk that is hypocritical or insincere.
The most direct equivalent for 'hypocrisy' or 'hypocritical talk'. It refers to pretending to have higher moral standards than one actually has.
His speech is full of cant.
Refers to fine-sounding but empty or idealistic words, often used to dismiss hypocritical or unrealistic talk.
That's just cant.
A more specific term for words or actions that pretend to be for someone else's benefit but are actually self-serving; a kind of hypocritical benevolence.
His kindness is nothing but cant.
To refer to the specialized vocabulary used by a particular group, such as thieves, professionals, or subcultures.
General term for secret language or jargon used by a specific group, such as criminals, professionals, or hobbyists.
The thieves were speaking in cant.
Specifically refers to industry jargon or trade terminology, often used in business or professional contexts.
Borrowed from English, used for informal slang or colloquial language, often among youth or subcultures.
A more specific term for coded language or signs used by merchants, gamblers, or in certain trades to communicate secretly.
To describe something that is set at an angle, or the angle itself.
General term for a slope or incline, used for surfaces, roads, or angles.
The road has a slight cant.
Often used for the gradient or slope of a road, railway, or roof, emphasizing the degree of incline.
A more general word for tilt or lean, can be used for objects that are not level.
English 'cant' in the sense of hypocritical talk does not have a single exact Japanese word. Using 偽善 is the closest, but it is a noun meaning 'hypocrisy'. The phrase きれいごと is often more natural in conversation to dismiss empty moralizing.
隠語 implies secrecy and is often associated with underworld or closed groups. 業界用語 is neutral industry jargon. スラング is casual, trendy slang. Choose based on the nuance of 'cant' you need.
The meeting was full of industry cant.
若者のスラングはすぐ変わる。
Youth cant changes quickly.
They use cant in the market.
この坂の勾配は急だ。
The cant of this slope is steep.
棚の傾きを直してください。
Please fix the cant of the shelf.