Translation guide
A social mistake or embarrassing blunder in etiquette. In Japanese, this is expressed through words for blunder, rudeness, or specific phrases for social slip-ups.
Describing an embarrassing mistake in social behavior or manners.
A verbal slip that offends or embarrasses.
A gaffe or slip of the tongue; saying something one shouldn't have.
A mistake due to not knowing Japanese customs.
A failure due to cultural differences; a descriptive phrase often used to explain a foreigner's faux pas.
The French loanword フォーパ is rarely used in Japanese and may not be understood. Use the native terms above instead.
If you commit a faux pas, a simple 失礼しました (しつれいしました) is a common way to apologize for rudeness or a mistake.
A general term for a blunder or failure, often used for social or professional mistakes that cause embarrassment.
He committed a faux pas at the party.
Rudeness or impoliteness; can refer to a specific act that is socially inappropriate. Often used in apologies.
His attire was a faux pas for the occasion.
Literally 'out-of-place behavior'; used to describe an action that is inappropriate for the setting.
His joke was a faux pas.
Bad manners or breach of etiquette; slightly formal.
He apologized for the faux pas.
A direct loanword phrase meaning 'etiquette violation'; used in contexts like business or formal dining.
That's a serious faux pas.
The minister's faux pas became an issue.
To let slip; to accidentally say something inappropriate.
He made a faux pas by accidentally revealing the secret.
To say something unnecessary or out of line; a casual way to describe a verbal faux pas.
He made another faux pas.
It was a faux pas due to cultural differences.
Strategy: Learn manners beforehand to avoid faux pas. Often suggested to visitors.
Before visiting Japan, it's good to learn basic manners like chopstick use to avoid faux pas.