Kanji 栄 flourish, prosperity, honor 映 reflect, reflection, projection Related words 栄光 is the more common, direct word for 'glory' in modern Japanese, while 栄え is a slightly more literary term that can also cover general flourishing or splendor.
光栄 expresses the personal feeling of being honored by something, whereas 栄え describes the state of glory or splendor itself.
繁栄 emphasizes prosperity and thriving (economic, national), while 栄え is broader and more literary, covering glory or splendor in general.
映え is a trendier, more casual word for visual appeal (as in インスタ映え ), while 見栄え is a more general, traditional term for looking attractive.
Don't confuse with 映える is a verb meaning 'to look attractive or shine' (often used for photos), while 栄え is the noun for glory or splendor despite sharing the same reading.
生える means 'to grow' (of hair, plants, teeth) and is pronounced identically to 栄え but is completely unrelated in meaning.
Word family good appearance; looking nice; attractive
result; outcome; performance · workmanship; execution; finish
glorious; honourable; splendid
Written forms 栄は え Usage 82%
Standard kanji spelling; the most common written form for this word.
映は え Usage 18%
Alternate kanji spelling, often used in contexts of visual brilliance or attractiveness (e.g., 映える ).
Etymology Derived from the verb 栄える (はえる , 'to flourish, prosper'). The noun form 栄え nominalizes the state of flourishing or being glorious.
Report an issue with this page
Copyright © 2026 Kotomora. All Rights Reserved.
