Translation guide
A self-portrait is a representation of an artist created by that artist. In Japanese, the most common term is 自画像 (jigazō), but other expressions exist depending on context, such as photography or casual selfies.
A work of art depicting the artist, made by the artist.
Standard term for a self-portrait in fine arts. Used for paintings, drawings, and sometimes sculptures.
彼の自画像はとてもリアルだ。
His self-portrait is very realistic.
美術館でゴッホの自画像を見た。
I saw Van Gogh's self-portrait at the museum.
Literally 'self-painted self-praise', this is an idiomatic expression meaning to sing one's own praises. It can be used humorously about a self-portrait, but is not a direct translation.
Not a direct equivalent; it's a set phrase. Use only in playful contexts.
これは私の自画自賛の作品です。
This is my self-congratulatory work (a self-portrait).
A photograph one takes of oneself, typically with a smartphone.
Common term for a selfie or self-taken photo. Used in casual and everyday contexts.
友達と自撮りをした。
I took a selfie with my friend.
自撮り棒を使うと便利だ。
It's convenient to use a selfie stick.
Loanword from English 'selfie'. Common among younger people and in social media contexts.
インスタにセルフィーを投稿した。
I posted a selfie on Instagram.
Literally 'self-taking (photo)'. Slightly more formal than 自撮り, but less common.
A work in any medium that is a portrayal of oneself.
Can be extended metaphorically to self-portrayal in writing or film, though it primarily refers to visual arts.
この小説は作者の自画像だと言われている。
This novel is said to be a self-portrait of the author.
A phrase meaning 'self-portrait as self-expression', used in academic or critical contexts.
彼女の作品は自己表現としての自画像である。
Her work is a self-portrait as self-expression.
自画像 (jigazō) is used for artistic self-portraits (paintings, drawings), while 自撮り (jidori) is for self-taken photos, especially casual ones. Using 自画像 for a selfie sounds overly formal or artistic.
自己肖像 (jiko shōzō) is not a common term. Stick to 自画像 or 自撮り depending on context.
自分撮りは難しい。
Taking a self-portrait photo is difficult.