Translation guide
The English phrase 'straighten up' has two main meanings: to tidy or organize a space, and to improve one's posture or behavior. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each.
To make a room, desk, or area neat by putting things in order.
The most common and versatile verb for tidying up. Used for rooms, desks, toys, etc.
To sit or stand more upright, or to stop misbehaving.
The English phrasal verb 'straighten up' does not have a single direct equivalent in Japanese. Always choose the expression based on whether you mean tidying or posture/behavior.
部屋を片付けてください。
Please straighten up your room.
机の上を片付けなさい。
Straighten up your desk.
Implies organizing systematically, not just tidying. Often used for documents, shelves, or digital files.
書類を整理してください。
Please straighten up the documents.
Means to put things in their proper places; often used in contexts like 'a place for everything and everything in its place'. More formal or written.
道具を整頓してください。
Please straighten up the tools.
Literally 'correct one's posture'. Used for both physical posture and metaphorical attitude.
背筋を伸ばして、姿勢を正しなさい。
Straighten up your back and fix your posture.
彼は注意されて、姿勢を正した。
He was scolded and straightened up his act.
Specifically means to straighten one's back. Common in instructions for sitting or standing properly.
背筋を伸ばして座りなさい。
Sit up straight.
A casual, all-purpose phrase meaning to behave properly or get oneself together. Often used with children.
ちゃんとしなさい！
Straighten up! (Behave yourself!)
A formal expression meaning to adjust one's sitting posture, often in a traditional setting. Implies showing respect.
お客様の前で居住まいを正した。
He straightened up his posture in front of the guest.