Translation guide
The English word "reputation" refers to the beliefs or opinions that are generally held about someone or something. In Japanese, expressing this concept often involves words like 評判 (ひょうばん) for general reputation, 名声 (めいせい) for fame, or 信用 (しんよう) for trustworthiness. The best choice depends on whether you're talking about public image, personal trust, or social standing.
To talk about the overall opinion people have of a person, place, or thing, often based on word of mouth or reviews.
The most common and versatile word for 'reputation'. It can be good or bad, and is used for people, businesses, products, etc.
あのレストランは評判がいい。
That restaurant has a good reputation.
彼は正直者だという評判だ。
He has a reputation for being honest.
Means 'rumor' or 'gossip'. Often used when reputation is based on hearsay rather than established fact.
彼女について悪い噂が流れている。
There are bad rumors going around about her.
A formal, written term for public reputation or public opinion. Rare in everyday speech.
その政策は世評が高い。
That policy enjoys a high public reputation.
To talk about being well-known and respected, often for achievements or qualities.
Refers to fame or renown, usually positive. Often used for artists, scholars, or historical figures.
彼は世界的な名声を得た。
He gained worldwide fame.
An adjective meaning 'famous'. Often used in the phrase 有名になる (to become famous). Less about respect and more about being widely known.
A formal term for high reputation or eminence. Often used in written contexts.
To talk about whether someone is reliable, honest, and can be trusted.
Means 'trust' or 'credit'. Often used in business or personal contexts to indicate reliability.
彼は嘘をついたので信用を失った。
He lost his reputation (trustworthiness) because he lied.
あの店は信用できる。
That shop is trustworthy.
Similar to 信用 but implies deeper reliance and confidence. Often used for close relationships or professional trust.
To talk about reputation in terms of dignity, face, or social esteem.
Refers to 'face' or honor. Often used in phrases like 面目を保つ (to save face) or 面目を失う (to lose face).
彼は面目を失った。
He lost face (his reputation was damaged).
Similar to 面目, meaning outward honor or appearances. Slightly more formal.
Means 'honor' or 'prestige'. Often used in legal contexts (e.g., defamation) or when talking about dignity.
To talk about being known for negative reasons.
Literally 'bad reputation'. Direct and clear.
その会社は悪評が立っている。
That company has a bad reputation.
Means 'unpopularity' or 'bad reputation'. Often used for products or services.
Means 'stigma' or 'disgrace'. Stronger than 悪評, implying a lasting stain on one's reputation.
評判 is the general word for reputation (good or bad) based on what people say. 名声 is specifically about fame and renown, usually positive. 信用 is about trustworthiness and reliability, often in business or personal integrity.
評判のレストラン (popular/famous restaurant)
A restaurant with a good reputation
名声を得る (gain fame)
To gain fame
信用を失う (lose trust)
To lose one's reputation (for trustworthiness)
English often uses 'reputation' where Japanese would use a more specific word or phrase. For example, 'He has a reputation for being late' is more naturally 彼は遅刻が多いことで知られている (He is known for being often late) rather than a direct translation with 評判.
その会社は不祥事で評判を落とした。
The company's reputation was damaged by the scandal.
彼女はその小説で有名になった。
She became famous for that novel.
高名な学者を招いて講演会を開いた。
We held a lecture inviting an eminent scholar.
長年の信頼を裏切る行為だ。
It's an act that betrays years of trust.
体面を汚すようなことはするな。
Don't do anything to disgrace your reputation.
Sue for defamation.
The new product had a bad reputation (was poorly received).
He was stigmatized (falsely accused and his reputation ruined).