Translation guide
The English word 'facade' has two main meanings: the front of a building, and a false appearance. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both.
The outward face or front exterior of a building, especially one that is decorative or imposing.
General term for the front or front face of a building. Neutral and widely used.
Loanword from English, used in architectural contexts. Common in design and real estate.
この教会のファサードはゴシック様式だ。
The facade of this church is Gothic style.
Exterior appearance, not limited to the front. Can refer to the whole outer look of a building.
An outward appearance that is maintained to conceal a less pleasant or creditable reality.
見せかけ emphasizes the act of pretending or faking, while うわべ focuses on the superficial layer that hides the truth. 見せかけ is often used for deliberate deception, うわべ for shallow appearances.
彼の自信は見せかけだ。
His confidence is a facade (he's faking it).
うわべの優しさに騙された。
I was fooled by his superficial kindness.
The facade of that building is decorated with beautiful carvings.
外観は古いが、内部は改装されている。
The facade is old, but the interior has been renovated.
A pretense or sham; something that is not what it seems. Common in everyday speech.
彼の親切は見せかけに過ぎない。
His kindness is just a facade.
Surface appearance, outward show. Often used in contrast with inner reality.
うわべだけの笑顔でごまかした。
I covered it up with a facade of a smile.
Appearance or form maintained for social propriety. Often implies keeping up appearances.
体裁を取り繕うのに必死だ。
He's desperate to maintain a facade.
Ostentation or false decoration; a showy but empty facade. More literary or formal.
彼女の生活は虚飾に満ちていた。
Her life was full of facade and pretense.