Translation guide
The English phrase "true character" refers to a person's real nature, personality, or identity, often hidden beneath a surface appearance. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through several words and phrases that emphasize authenticity, inner self, or the contrast between public and private selves.
Expressing the idea of a person's genuine personality, as opposed to a facade or public persona.
Refers to one's true nature or innate character, often used when someone reveals their real self, especially in a negative sense (e.g., showing a bad side). It can be neutral but frequently implies a hidden, sometimes undesirable, nature.
He finally showed his true character.
When he drinks, his true character comes out.
Means 'essence' or 'true nature' in a more abstract or philosophical sense. It can refer to the fundamental character of a person or thing, not necessarily hidden but core.
His true character is kindness.
Literally 'bare face' (without makeup), metaphorically means one's true self or unguarded character, often used in contrast to a public image.
Her true character (the real her) is very charming.
Refers to one's natural disposition or true self, often used in casual contexts to mean 'the real me/him/her' as opposed to a forced persona. Common in phrases like 地が出る (one's true self comes out).
When I'm nervous, my true character doesn't come out.
Referring to a person's moral strength, honesty, and ethical nature.
Describes a person's character or personality in terms of their moral qualities, warmth, and likability. Often used positively to mean 'good character'.
I was drawn to his true character (his good nature).
Means 'personality' or 'character' in a more formal, psychological, or ethical sense. Often used in contexts of moral integrity or personal development.
Refers to dignity, refinement, or moral character, often implying a sense of nobility or class. Used in formal or literary contexts.
Expressing the real identity of a person, especially when they are pretending to be someone else.
Means 'true identity' or 'true form', often used when someone is disguised, hiding their identity, or when a supernatural being reveals its real form.
His true character (identity) was a spy.
Literally 'true self', used in personal, introspective contexts about being authentic or finding one's real identity.
I want to find my true character (true self).
Describing the true character or essential quality of an object, concept, or situation.
As above, but applied to non-human subjects. It means the fundamental nature or essence of something.
To discern the true character (essence) of the problem.
Means 'true state' or 'reality', often used to contrast appearance with actual condition.
The phrase "true character" cannot be directly translated as 真のキャラクター or similar. Use the appropriate Japanese word based on context: hidden nature (本性), moral character (人柄), identity (正体), or essence (本質).
本性 often implies a hidden, sometimes negative, true nature that is revealed. 本質 is more neutral and philosophical, referring to the fundamental essence of a person or thing. Use 本性 when someone's real (often bad) self comes out; use 本質 for core characteristics.
One's true character shines through.
彼は人格者だ。
He is a person of true character (a person of integrity).
彼の品性が疑われる。
His true character (moral integrity) is questioned.
The monster revealed its true character (form).
この計画の実体は不明だ。
The true character (actual state) of this plan is unknown.