Translation guide
The state of not being drunk, or the quality of being serious and calm. In Japanese, different words are used for the physical state versus the character trait.
The physical state of not being under the influence of alcohol.
The quality of being serious, calm, and restrained, often in contrast to frivolity or excess.
Seriousness, earnestness. Often used for a person's character or attitude.
The practice of not drinking alcohol at all, often as a lifestyle choice.
Abstinence from alcohol, teetotalism. Can refer to a temporary or permanent decision.
English 'sobriety' can mean both 'not drunk' and 'seriousness'. In Japanese, these are completely different words. Use しらふ for the physical state, and 真面目 or 節制 for the character trait.
Both are read しらふ and mean 'sober'. しらふ is the common kana form, while 素面 is the kanji form often seen in writing. In speech, しらふ is preferred.
しらふの時に話しましょう。
Let's talk when you're sober.
Kanji form of しらふ. More common in written language.
素面では言えない本音。
True feelings you can't say when sober.
Literally 'the alcohol leaves', meaning to sober up after drinking.
酒が抜けるまで待って。
Wait until I sober up.
To sober up, to become sober from drunkenness. Often used for the process of sobering up.
酔いが覚めたら電話して。
Call me when you've sobered up.
彼の真面目さは評価されている。
His sobriety (seriousness) is appreciated.
Stern and serious demeanor. Very formal and somewhat old-fashioned.
謹厳な態度で臨む。
Approach with sobriety (stern seriousness).
Temperance, moderation, self-restraint, especially regarding desires like drinking or eating.
節制のある生活を送る。
Lead a life of sobriety (temperance).
健康のために禁酒している。
I'm abstaining from alcohol for my health.
A person who cannot drink alcohol (due to low tolerance or dislike). Often used to describe oneself.
私は下戸なので、ジュースで乾杯します。
I'm a non-drinker, so I'll toast with juice.