Translation guide
The English phrase "true heart" refers to one's genuine feelings, sincerity, or innermost self. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through several words and phrases that emphasize honesty, purity of intention, and emotional authenticity.
Expressing one's genuine emotions or real intentions, often contrasted with superficial or hidden feelings.
Refers to one's true feelings or real intentions, especially when they may be hidden behind a facade. Commonly used in contexts where someone is not being honest about their emotions.
I don't know his true feelings.
To tell you my true feelings, I'm against that plan.
One's real opinion or true feelings, often contrasted with 建前 (たてまえ, public stance). Used when someone reveals what they really think.
He rarely says what he really thinks.
To use one's true feelings and public stance differently depending on the situation.
Literally 'the bottom of one's heart', used to express deep, sincere feelings. Often used in phrases like 心の底から (from the bottom of one's heart).
I am grateful from the bottom of my heart.
Describing a heart that is innocent, free from malice, or morally pure.
Sincerity, devotion, or a pure heart. Often implies selfless, genuine care for others. Used in contexts of heartfelt actions or gifts.
I wrote the letter with all my heart.
A pure, innocent heart. Often used to describe a childlike sincerity or lack of ulterior motives.
She has a pure heart.
A clean, pure heart, often with moral or spiritual connotations. More literary or formal.
I want to live with a pure heart.
Referring to the deepest, most authentic part of a person, often in spiritual or emotional contexts.
本心 (ほんしん) refers to one's true inner feelings, often emotional and personal. 本音 (ほんね) refers to one's real opinion or what one truly thinks, often in contrast to a public stance (建前). Use 本心 for emotional sincerity and 本音 for honest opinions.
His true heart was full of sadness.
I couldn't say what I really thought at the meeting.
The literal translation 真の心 (しんのこころ) is not commonly used in natural Japanese. It may sound poetic or archaic. Use the words and phrases in this guide instead.
His sincerity came through.
彼の本質は優しさだ。
His true nature is kindness.