Translation guide
The English word "honest" covers a range of meanings from truthfulness and sincerity to frankness and integrity. In Japanese, different words and expressions are used depending on the nuance. This guide helps you choose the right one.
Describing a person or statement that tells the truth and does not deceive.
The most common and general word for 'honest' in the sense of truthfulness and frankness. Can be used as a noun or na-adjective.
He is an honest person.
To be honest, I don't like it.
Emphasizes sincerity, faithfulness, and earnestness. Often used for a person's character or attitude.
He answered with an honest attitude.
Literally 'not tell lies'. A straightforward way to describe someone who doesn't lie.
He never lies.
Expressing one's true thoughts or feelings openly, without hiding anything.
Being true to one's feelings, without pretense or hypocrisy.
Means 'honest' in the sense of being open-minded, obedient, or genuine. Often used for children or when accepting advice.
If you apologize honestly, you'll be forgiven.
She has an honest personality.
Conveys earnestness and sincerity, often in formal contexts like work or apologies.
Acting with integrity, not cheating or deceiving in transactions or relationships.
Admitting faults or limitations truthfully.
正直 (shōjiki) is the most general 'honest' for truthfulness. 誠実 (seijitsu) emphasizes sincerity and faithfulness, often in relationships or duties. 素直 (sunao) implies a gentle, open-minded honesty, like a child's frankness or willingness to listen.
In many situations, Japanese speakers convey honesty through phrases like 正直に言うと (shōjiki ni iu to) or by using humble expressions. Directly calling someone 正直 can sometimes sound like you're doubting their usual truthfulness.
To be honest, I don't know.
She gave me her honest opinion.
He is an honest and hardworking man.
Honestly speaking, I think that plan is impossible.
彼のあけすけな物言いが嫌いだ。
I don't like his blunt way of speaking.
I will take it sincerely.
He is known as an honest politician.
彼は自分の過ちを告白した。
He confessed his mistake honestly.