Translation guide
The concept of duplicity refers to deceitful behavior, where someone acts in two different ways to different people or says one thing while meaning another. In Japanese, this is expressed through words for two-facedness, hypocrisy, and dishonesty.
Describing someone who acts differently in front of different people, often to gain advantage.
Pretending to have higher standards or beliefs than one actually possesses.
The standard word for 'hypocrisy'. It refers to pretending to be virtuous while acting otherwise.
Engaging in secret, dishonest plans to trick others.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches 'duplicity' in all contexts. The direct translation '二重性' (にじゅうせい) means 'duality' and does not carry the negative connotation of deceit. Avoid using it to mean duplicity.
Literally 'two hearts', this word captures the essence of duplicity—having a hidden, different intention. It is somewhat literary but commonly understood.
彼は二心がある。
He is duplicitous.
A very common phrase meaning 'to be two-faced', literally 'to have a back and a front'. It describes someone whose public face differs from their private self.
あの人は裏表があるから気をつけて。
Be careful with that person; they are two-faced.
Literally 'two tongues', this word specifically refers to saying different things to different people. It is a strong, negative term.
彼の二枚舌にはうんざりだ。
I'm fed up with his duplicity.
A more formal or literary term for 'two sides', often used in contexts of duplicity or hidden aspects. It can also mean 'both sides' neutrally, so context is key.
彼の表裏のある性格が問題だ。
His duplicitous nature is a problem.
彼の行動は偽善だ。
His actions are hypocrisy.
A phrase meaning 'inconsistency between words and actions'. It highlights the gap between what someone says and what they do, a key aspect of duplicity.
彼の言行不一致には呆れる。
I'm amazed at his duplicity.
An adjective meaning 'black-hearted' or 'scheming'. It describes someone who appears kind but has malicious intentions.
彼女は腹黒い。
She is duplicitous.
Means 'conspiracy' or 'scheme'. It can be used to describe duplicitous plotting.
彼の陰謀が明らかになった。
His duplicity was exposed.