Translation guide
Describes a person who is morally upright, honest, and trustworthy. Japanese expresses this through adjectives, nouns, and set phrases that emphasize inner virtue, reliability, and social integrity.
Describing someone who is fundamentally good, ethical, and honest in character.
A formal adjective meaning 'good-natured' or 'virtuous', often used in written descriptions or formal speech.
He is a person of good character.
Means 'sincere' and 'faithful', emphasizing honesty and trustworthiness. Very common in both spoken and written Japanese.
She has a sincere character.
A noun meaning 'person of character' or 'person of integrity'. Used to describe someone with a well-rounded, admirable personality.
He is truly a person of good character.
A literary term meaning 'noble' or 'high-minded'. Used in formal or written contexts to describe someone of impeccable moral character.
I was impressed by his noble way of life.
Emphasizing that someone can be trusted and depended upon.
A broader, everyday description of someone with a pleasant, good-natured personality.
The most common and casual way to say someone has a good personality. Can refer to kindness, friendliness, or general good nature.
He has a good personality, so everyone likes him.
Similar to 性格がいい, but emphasizes the overall impression of a person's character, often including warmth and integrity.
性格 (せいかく) refers to personality traits, while 人柄 (ひとがら) refers to the overall character or nature of a person as perceived by others. 人柄がいい often implies a deeper, more holistic goodness including moral qualities.
He has a cheerful personality.
I was drawn to her good character.
The English phrase 'of good character' is often used in formal contexts like references or legal documents. In Japanese, directly translating it as 「良い性格の」 sounds unnatural. Instead, use specific adjectives like 誠実な or nouns like 人格者 depending on the nuance.
She is a woman of good character.
We need someone of good character for this position.
His honest character was appreciated.
She has a good character and is trusted.