Translation guide
How to express the idea of someone's real character, personality, or essence in Japanese, from common phrases to literary expressions.
Expressing someone's genuine personality or inner self, often hidden or revealed in certain situations.
The most direct and common word for 'true nature' or 'real character'. Often used when someone's hidden side is revealed, sometimes with negative connotations.
His true nature finally came out.
When he drinks, his true nature comes out.
Refers to the 'essence' or 'true nature' of a person or thing, often in a more philosophical or analytical sense.
His true nature is kindness.
Literally 'unpainted face', meaning one's true self without pretense, often used in contrast to a public persona.
Her true self is very charming.
Casual term for one's 'real self' or 'natural state', often used in contrast to a role or act. Common in phrases like 地が出る (one's true self comes out).
When I'm nervous, my true self comes out.
Often used for 'true identity' or 'true form', especially when someone is disguised or pretending. Can imply a shocking revelation.
His true nature was that of a con artist.
Focusing on the moment when someone's true character is exposed or discovered.
Referring to someone's inherent nature or temperament, often unchangeable.
The English phrase 'one's true nature' is often translated as 本性, but in many contexts, more specific words like 素顔 or 地 are more natural. Using 本性 can sound overly dramatic or negative if not appropriate.
本性 often implies a hidden or revealed character, sometimes with a negative nuance (e.g., a villain's true nature). 本質 is more neutral and philosophical, referring to the essential quality of a person or thing.
Literary idiom meaning 'to show one's true colors' or 'to reveal one's true nature', often used when a hidden flaw is exposed.
He finally showed his true colors.
He has an artistic temperament.