Translation guide
The concept of modesty in Japanese is deeply tied to humility, self-effacement, and social harmony. Direct translations exist, but natural expression often relies on humble language, indirect phrasing, and culturally specific behaviors.
He is modest.
Don't be so modest!
Expressing that one is not boastful, downplaying one's own abilities or accomplishments.
The most common word for modesty as a virtue; often used in the phrase ご謙遜を (you're being too modest).
He is always modest.
You don't have to be so modest.
Modesty as a character trait, often implying a quiet, unassuming nature. Slightly more formal than 謙遜.
A common way to deflect a compliment, literally 'That's not true.' Equivalent to 'Oh, no, not at all.'
Literally 'I still have a long way to go.' A standard humble response to praise.
A: That's amazing! B: Oh, I still have a lot to learn.
In formal situations, using humble verbs like 申す (to say) or いただく (to receive) shows modesty by lowering oneself.
I will be in charge (humble).
Describing clothing or conduct that is not revealing, flashy, or attention-seeking.
Plain, subdued, conservative. Often used for clothing, makeup, or appearance.
She always wears modest clothes.
Reserved, restrained, understated. Can apply to behavior, clothing, or personality.
Neat and clean, often used for a modest, pure, and elegant feminine appearance.
Referring to the broader cultural expectation of not standing out or boasting.
Proverb: 'The nail that sticks out gets hammered down.' Reflects the cultural pressure to be modest and conform.
In Japan, they say 'the nail that sticks out gets hammered down.'
When introducing family members or colleagues, using humble language or deprecating remarks is a form of modesty.
Using 愚妻 (foolish wife) is very traditional and can sound outdated or sexist. Use with caution.
This is my foolish wife (humble introduction).
While 謙遜 and 謙虚 are correct, Japanese speakers often express modesty through indirect phrases like そんなことないです rather than explicitly stating 'I am modest.' Using the word 謙遜 about oneself can sometimes sound boastful about being modest.
謙遜 (kenson) often refers to the act of being humble in speech or behavior, while 謙虚 (kenkyo) describes a deeper, inherent modesty of character. 謙遜 is more commonly used in everyday conversation.
She is a very modest person.
A: Your Japanese is good. B: No, no, not at all.
控えめなデザインのドレスを選んだ。
I chose a dress with a modest design.
A modest, neat appearance is preferred.