Translation guide
The English word "masquerade" has two main meanings: a literal masked ball or costume party, and a figurative act of pretending to be something one is not. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both.
A social event where people wear masks and often costumes.
The standard term for a formal masked ball. Literally 'masked dance party'.
Many nobles will attend tonight's masquerade ball.
Loanword from English, used for themed parties or events, often with a Western flair.
We're planning to hold a masquerade party for Halloween.
General term for a costume party, not necessarily with masks. Common for Halloween or casual events.
At the office costume party, I dressed up as a vampire.
An act of deception or disguise, often to hide one's true nature or intentions.
Disguise or camouflage, often used for physical or systematic deception (e.g., vehicle, identity).
His charity work was merely a masquerade for tax evasion.
Pretense or outward appearance that hides the truth. Common in everyday speech.
Literally 'to wear a mask', meaning to hide one's true feelings or personality.
Impersonation or identity fraud, often used in online contexts.
偽装 (gisō) implies a deliberate, often systematic disguise (e.g., disguising a crime, vehicle, or identity). 見せかけ (misekake) is more about superficial appearance or pretense in behavior or character. Use 偽装 for concrete deception, 見せかけ for abstract fakery.
彼の優しさは見せかけで、本当は冷酷な人間だ。
His kindness is just a masquerade; he's actually a cold-hearted person.
She's always masquerading; I can't see her true feelings.
Cases of masquerading on social media are increasing.
That kindness was just a masquerade.