Translation guide
The English word "posture" can refer to the physical position of the body, a way of holding oneself, or a figurative stance or attitude. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for these meanings.
Describing the way someone holds their body when standing, sitting, or moving, often with a focus on health or appearance.
The most common and general word for physical posture. Used in contexts like health, sports, and daily life.
It's important to maintain good posture.
A hunched back is an example of bad posture.
Refers to body position or stance, often in dynamic situations like sports or physical activities. More about readiness or balance.
He adjusted his posture to take the shot.
Specifically refers to one's standing figure or posture, often with an aesthetic nuance.
Her standing posture is very beautiful.
Referring to a mental or ideological position, approach, or attitude toward something.
Also used figuratively to mean one's attitude or stance toward an issue. Very common in business and formal contexts.
His posture toward work is wonderful.
The company showed a proactive posture on environmental issues.
Means attitude or demeanor. Often used when posture implies a behavioral stance, sometimes with a negative connotation.
Literally a physical stance, but can be used figuratively for a mental preparedness or defensive posture.
姿勢 (shisei) is neutral and often positive, focusing on one's approach or stance. 態度 (taido) can imply visible behavior or attitude, and may carry a negative nuance if not qualified positively.
English 'posture' in the sense of 'to posture' (to behave affectedly) does not translate directly to 姿勢. Use expressions like 気取る (きどる, to put on airs) or ポーズをとる (to strike a pose) instead.
彼の態度は生意気だ。
His posture/attitude is cheeky.
彼はいつも批判に対して身構えている。
He always has a defensive posture against criticism.