Translation guide
The concept of prestige in Japanese is expressed through words describing social status, honor, and reputation. The most common and versatile term is 名声 (meisei), but other words carry nuances of dignity, fame, or influence.
To refer to the respect and admiration that someone or something has because of their achievements or quality.
The most common and neutral word for prestige or renown. It can be used for individuals, institutions, or brands.
彼は名声を得た。
He gained prestige.
その大学は名声が高い。
That university has high prestige.
Prestige in the sense of authority, dignity, or the power to command respect. Often used for nations, organizations, or leaders.
国の威信を守る。
Protect the nation's prestige.
Honor or prestige associated with moral standing or recognition. Often used in contexts like awards or personal integrity.
それは大変な名誉です。
It is a great honor/prestige.
Loanword from English, used in marketing or brand contexts (e.g., 'prestige brand'). Not used for personal reputation.
プレステージブランド
prestige brand
To refer to the level of respect associated with a social position or rank.
Refers to the formality, dignity, or prestige of an institution, event, or family based on tradition and status.
格式のあるホテル
a prestigious hotel
Status or rank; often used in compounds to indicate a certain level of prestige.
格が違う
be in a different league (in terms of prestige/status)
Loanword for social status, often used for possessions or jobs that confer prestige.
To describe the high regard of a school, company, or profession.
First-class, top-tier. Commonly used for universities, companies, or professionals.
一流企業に就職する。
Get a job at a prestigious company.
Prestigious, long-established institution, especially schools or families.
名声 (meisei) is general renown; 威信 (ishin) is authoritative dignity; 名誉 (meiyo) is honor or moral prestige. Use 名声 for most cases.
The loanword プレステージ is limited to marketing contexts. For personal or institutional reputation, use native Japanese words.
高級車はステータスシンボルだ。
A luxury car is a status symbol.
名門校
prestigious school