Translation guide
The English word "profile" covers several distinct concepts: a side view of a face, a brief biographical description, a public persona or visibility, and the outline or contour of something. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Referring to the outline of a person's face as seen from the side.
The most common and natural word for a side view of a face. Used in everyday conversation and writing.
Her profile is very beautiful.
Loanword from English, used in contexts like photography or art, but less common than 横顔 for everyday face descriptions.
In this photo, the model's profile is emphasized.
A short summary of a person's background, career, or characteristics, often used in social media, resumes, or introductions.
The standard term for a personal profile or bio, especially online or in professional contexts.
I updated my social media profile.
Refers specifically to a brief career or personal history summary, often used in formal documents or speaker introductions.
Literally 'person introduction', used for a descriptive profile in articles or books.
The degree to which someone or something attracts public attention, or the image they project.
Means 'level of attention' and is often used to talk about raising or lowering one's profile.
His profile has been rising recently.
Refers to name recognition or fame. Often used for companies or public figures.
Means 'presence' or 'prominence', often used when someone maintains a noticeable profile.
The adjective 控えめ means 'modest' or 'reserved', and can describe keeping a low profile.
He is keeping a low profile.
The shape or outline of something, especially as seen against a background.
General word for outline, contour, or silhouette. Can be used for faces, objects, or abstract shapes.
The profile of the mountain stood out against the sunset.
Loanword for silhouette, often used in artistic or descriptive contexts.
プロフィール is a loanword used for biographical summaries or online profiles. 横顔 specifically means the side view of a face. Do not use プロフィール to describe a person's facial profile in everyday conversation; it sounds unnatural.
I like her profile (side view of her face).
I read her profile (bio).
The English phrase 'keep a low profile' does not translate directly. Use expressions like 控えめにする (to be modest/reserved) or 目立たないようにする (to avoid standing out).
He is keeping a low profile.
His profile details his career history.
講演者の略歴を紹介します。
I will introduce the speaker's profile.
A profile of him appeared in the magazine.
その会社は海外での知名度が低い。
The company has a low profile overseas.
She maintained a high profile at the meeting.
木々のシルエットが美しい。
The profile of the trees is beautiful.