Translation guide
How to express 'real intentions' in Japanese, from direct statements to nuanced phrases that reveal what someone truly means or feels.
Expressing one's genuine inner thoughts or emotions, often contrasted with outward appearance or polite facade.
The most common and direct word for 'real intentions' or 'true feelings', often used in contrast with 建前 (たてまえ, public facade).
彼の本音が聞きたい。
I want to hear his real intentions.
本音を言うと、その計画には反対だ。
To tell you my true feelings, I'm against that plan.
Similar to 本音, but slightly more formal and often used in serious contexts. Emphasizes one's true mind or heart.
彼の本心はわからない。
I don't know his real intentions.
Refers to the true meaning or motive behind someone's words or actions. Often used when questioning hidden intentions.
彼の言葉の真意を測りかねている。
I can't quite gauge the real intention behind his words.
Means 'inward thoughts' or 'secret feelings'. Often used in phrases like 内心では (inwardly).
内心では彼に同意していた。
Inwardly, I agreed with him.
Referring to ulterior motives or what someone is really after, often with a negative or suspicious nuance.
Implies a hidden, often selfish or ulterior motive. Commonly used when someone's kindness seems to have strings attached.
彼の親切には下心があると思う。
I think there's an ulterior motive behind his kindness.
A slightly old-fashioned or dramatic word for a secret scheme or hidden intention. Often used in detective stories or when exposing someone's plot.
Refers to a plot or scheme, often with a negative connotation. More about a planned action than just an intention.
Phrases to directly or indirectly ask what someone truly means or wants.
A casual and direct way to ask 'What do you really think?'. Use with close friends or in informal settings.
本当はどう思っているの？遠慮しないで言って。
What do you really think? Don't hold back, tell me.
A polite request: 'Please tell me your real intentions.' Suitable for both formal and informal situations.
本音を言ってください。私たちは仲間でしょう。
Please tell me your real intentions. We're colleagues, right?
Literally 'What are you thinking?', often used to ask about someone's intentions or feelings when they seem distant or secretive.
最近、何を考えているの？
What's on your mind lately? (implying: what are your real intentions?)
Phrases to disclose what you truly mean or feel, often after hesitation.
A very common way to start revealing the truth: 'Actually...' or 'The truth is...'. It signals that you are about to share your real thoughts.
実は、会社を辞めたいと思っています。
Actually, I'm thinking of quitting the company.
Means 'To be honest...' or 'Frankly speaking...'. Used to preface a candid statement.
正直に言うと、その提案には賛成できません。
To be honest, I can't agree with that proposal.
Literally 'If I say my real intention...', equivalent to 'To tell you the truth...'.
本音を言えば、もっと休みが欲しい。
To tell you the truth, I want more time off.
本音 (ほんね) is the most common and casual, often used in daily conversation. 本心 (ほんしん) is slightly more formal and serious, often about one's true heart. 真意 (しんい) focuses on the true meaning or motive behind words/actions, and is often used when analyzing or questioning.
彼の本音はわからないが、本心では賛成しているかもしれない。
I don't know his real intentions, but deep down he might agree.
Avoid directly translating 'real intentions' as 本当の意図 (ほんとうのいと) or リアルインテンション. These sound unnatural. Use the words and phrases above instead.
彼の魂胆を見抜いた。
I saw through his real intentions.
彼の企みを暴く。
To expose his scheme.