Translation guide
A smile that is not genuine, often used to hide discomfort, be polite, or conform to social expectations. Japanese has several nuanced expressions for this.
A smile used in social situations to be polite, even if not feeling happy.
A polite, social smile used to maintain harmony or hide true feelings. Common in customer service or awkward situations.
He gives a forced smile even when he's displeased.
A manufactured smile, often obviously fake. Can imply the smile is put on intentionally.
Her forced smile was painful to watch.
Literally 'to make a smile', often implying effort to smile when not feeling it.
He put on a smile and greeted them.
A smile used to mask sadness, anger, or discomfort.
A smile that looks physically forced or unnatural.
愛想笑い is a social lubricant, often expected and not necessarily negative. 作り笑い implies a more obvious, perhaps clumsy attempt to fake a smile, and can have a negative nuance.
In Japan, smiling in difficult situations can be a way to maintain wa (harmony) and avoid burdening others with negative emotions. This is often seen as a virtue rather than dishonesty.
A forced, strained smile appeared on his face.
She hid her sadness with a forced smile.