Translation guide
The respect and admiration that a nation receives from other countries, often tied to its achievements, power, or cultural influence. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through words that emphasize honor, dignity, and international standing.
The overall respect and high standing of a nation in the international community.
The most direct and common term for national prestige or dignity. Often used in formal contexts.
Literally 'national authority/dignity', emphasizing the nation's credibility and honor.
国の威信を守る
protect national prestige
A more formal compound meaning 'national prestige' or 'state dignity'.
国家的威信をかけたプロジェクト
a project that stakes national prestige
A literary term for national glory or honor, rarely used in modern conversation.
国光を輝かせる
make the nation's glory shine
The perception of a nation's status and influence on the world stage.
Refers to a nation's international standing or status, often used in political and economic contexts.
国際的な地位を向上させる
improve international standing
International prestige, combining 'international' with 'dignity/authority'.
国際的威信を高める
enhance international prestige
Fame or reputation; can be used for a nation's good name, but is more general.
The sense of pride and honor associated with the nation, often in cultural or historical contexts.
National disgrace or humiliation; often used in contrast to prestige, as in 'averting national disgrace'.
This word means 'national disgrace', the opposite of prestige, but is commonly used in discussions about protecting national honor.
国辱を避ける
avoid national humiliation
National honor; often used in contexts of defending or restoring a nation's good name.
国家的名誉を回復する
restore national honor
Also used in the sense of national pride and dignity.
国威を示す
demonstrate national prestige
国威 (こくい) is the most common and concise term for national prestige, often used in set phrases like 国威発揚 (promotion of national prestige). 国の威信 (くにのいしん) emphasizes authority and credibility, and is slightly more formal. Both are suitable for written and spoken formal contexts.
国威 is frequently used in compounds such as 国威発揚 (promotion of national prestige) and 国威高揚 (enhancement of national prestige). These are common in political speeches and news articles.
国の名声を傷つける
damage the nation's reputation