Translation guide
The concept of integrity in English covers moral uprightness, honesty, and wholeness. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; the best choice depends on the nuance.
Personal quality of being honest and having strong moral principles
The most common and versatile word for integrity as a personal virtue. Implies sincerity, honesty, and faithfulness.
The state of being whole and undivided, often used for structures, data, or systems
The English word 'integrity' is often used in phrases like 'a man of integrity' or 'act with integrity'. Directly translating these into Japanese can sound unnatural. Instead, use 誠実な人 or 筋を通す depending on context.
誠実 is the everyday word for personal integrity, suitable for describing a trustworthy friend or colleague. 高潔 is more elevated, implying a noble, almost saintly character, and is less common in casual speech.
彼は誠実な人だ。
He is a man of integrity.
誠実さが何より大切だ。
Integrity is the most important thing.
Noble and pure integrity, often used in formal or literary contexts. Emphasizes moral excellence and incorruptibility.
彼の高潔な人格は多くの人に尊敬されている。
His noble integrity is respected by many.
Integrity with a focus on being clean and honest, especially in financial or political matters. Often used for public officials.
清廉潔白な政治家は少ない。
There are few politicians of incorruptible integrity.
To act with integrity by sticking to one's principles or doing things properly. Often used in business or personal conduct.
彼はいつも筋を通す。
He always acts with integrity.
Constancy of principle; integrity in the sense of not compromising one's beliefs. Somewhat literary.
節操を守る。
To maintain one's integrity.
Technical term for integrity as completeness or soundness, used in IT, engineering, and formal contexts.
データの完全性を保つ。
Maintain data integrity.
Integrity as unity or cohesion, often used for organizations, art, or abstract concepts.
国家の一体性を守る。
Protect the integrity of the nation.
Integrity as consistency or coherence, especially in logic, data, or arguments.
システムの整合性をチェックする。
Check the integrity of the system.