Translation guide
The English word 'trait' refers to a distinguishing characteristic or quality, especially of a person's personality or behavior. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; the best choice depends on whether you are talking about personality, physical features, inherited characteristics, or a general feature.
Describing a person's typical behavior, disposition, or moral quality.
Refers to one's personality or character as a whole, but can be used with adjectives to describe specific traits.
He has a cheerful personality.
a person with a good character
A characteristic or property, often used in more formal or analytical contexts. Can refer to personality traits but is broader.
to understand an individual's traits
Refers to one's personality as perceived by others, often with a nuance of warmth, kindness, or general impression.
I was drawn to his personality.
A feature that sets something or someone apart, not necessarily personality.
The most common word for a distinguishing feature or characteristic of a person, thing, or situation.
His distinguishing facial feature is his big eyes.
A special quality or inherent characteristic, often used for abstract traits or properties.
A characteristic passed down genetically.
A characteristic commonly associated with a group of people.
性格 (seikaku) is specifically for personality/character. 特徴 (tokuchou) is the most general word for any distinguishing feature. 特性 (tokusei) is more formal and often used for inherent properties or technical traits.
His personality is gentle.
This dog's distinguishing trait is its short legs.
to investigate the properties of a substance
This car's distinguishing trait is its good fuel efficiency.
リーダーに必要な特質
traits necessary for a leader
Genetic traits are passed from parent to child.
文化の特性
cultural traits