CEFR C1

建前

Public facade

Translation

public facade / outward appearance / official stance / stated principle

Meaning

A Japanese concept referring to the behavior and opinions one displays in public. It's often a pragmatic response to social expectations, aiming to maintain harmony and avoid conflict, even if it doesn't perfectly reflect one's true feelings or intentions. It contrasts with 'honne' (本音), which is one's true feelings and desires.

Examples

彼は会議では賛成の建前を示したが、本当は反対だった。
He showed a tatemae of agreement in the meeting, but he was actually against it.
会社の建前としては顧客第一だが、実際は利益優先だ。
The company's tatemae is 'customer first,' but in reality, profit comes first.

Definition

意味: 建前とは、人前で示す行動や意見を指す日本の概念です。多くの場合、社会的な期待に応え、調和を保ち、衝突を避けるための実用的な対応であり、たとえそれが個人の本当の感情や意図を完全に反映していなくてもそうします。「本音」とは対照的で、本音は個人の本当の感情や願望を意味します。

Examples / 例文

彼は会議では賛成の建前を示したが、本当は反対だった。 — He showed a tatemae of agreement in the meeting, but he was actually against it.

会社の建前としては顧客第一だが、実際は利益優先だ。 — The company's tatemae is 'customer first,' but in reality, profit comes first.

建前と本音を使い分けるのが、日本社会では重要だ。 — Distinguishing between tatemae and honne is important in Japanese society.

How to Use Public facade

tatemae and honne (pairing)

Refers to the contrast between public facade and true feelings, a fundamental concept in Japanese communication. — "In Japan, understanding the difference between tatemae and honne is key to effective communication."

maintain tatemae (verb phrase)

To uphold or keep up one's public facade or official stance. — "Despite his personal doubts, he had to maintain tatemae during the press conference."

建前