Translation guide
How to express the idea of someone's real character, personality, or essence in Japanese, from common phrases to literary expressions.
Expressing someone's genuine personality or inner self, often hidden or revealed in certain situations.
Focusing on the moment when someone's true character is exposed or discovered.
Idiom meaning 'the mask comes off' or 'one's true colors are revealed', often with a negative implication.
彼の化けの皮が剥がれた。
His true nature was exposed.
Referring to someone's inherent nature or temperament, often unchangeable.
The English phrase 'one's true nature' is often translated as 本性, but in many contexts, more specific words like 素顔 or 地 are more natural. Using 本性 can sound overly dramatic or negative if not appropriate.
本性 often implies a hidden or revealed character, sometimes with a negative nuance (e.g., a villain's true nature). 本質 is more neutral and philosophical, referring to the essential quality of a person or thing.
The most direct and common word for 'true nature' or 'real character'. Often used when someone's hidden side is revealed, sometimes with negative connotations.
彼の本性がついに現れた。
His true nature finally came out.
酒を飲むと本性が出る。
When he drinks, his true nature comes out.
Refers to the 'essence' or 'true nature' of a person or thing, often in a more philosophical or analytical sense.
彼の本質は優しさだ。
His true nature is kindness.
Literally 'unpainted face', meaning one's true self without pretense, often used in contrast to a public persona.
彼女の素顔はとても魅力的だ。
Her true self is very charming.
Casual term for one's 'real self' or 'natural state', often used in contrast to a role or act. Common in phrases like 地が出る (one's true self comes out).
緊張すると地が出る。
When I'm nervous, my true self comes out.
Often used for 'true identity' or 'true form', especially when someone is disguised or pretending. Can imply a shocking revelation.
彼の正体は詐欺師だった。
His true nature was that of a con artist.
Literary idiom meaning 'to show one's true colors' or 'to reveal one's true nature', often used when a hidden flaw is exposed.
彼はついに馬脚を現した。
He finally showed his true colors.
One's innate nature or natural disposition, often used for talents or personality traits.
彼の優しさは天性のものだ。
His kindness is part of his true nature.