Translation and Meaning of: 建前 - tatemae

The Japanese word 建前[たてまえ] is a fascinating term that goes beyond its literal meaning. It reflects deep aspects of culture and communication in Japan, being frequently used in social and professional contexts. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is applied in daily life, as well as tips for memorizing it correctly.

If you have already studied Japanese, you know that some words carry unique cultural nuances. 建前[たてまえ] is one of them, representing concepts that can be difficult to translate directly into other languages. Here, we will uncover its usage, frequency, and even how it appears in real conversations.

The meaning and origin of 建前 [たてまえ]

Tatemae [たてまえ] can be translated as "facade" or "public posture," but its meaning goes deeper. Originally, the term comes from traditional Japanese architecture, where it refers to the main structure of a building. Over time, it has come to symbolize what is shown externally, in contrast to what one truly thinks or feels.

In Japanese culture, this duality between what is expressed and what is kept hidden is something valued. While 本音[ほんね] represents true feelings, 建前[たてまえ] is what is said to maintain social harmony. This distinction is essential for understanding communication in Japan.

How 建前[たてまえ] is used in everyday life.

In the workplace or at social events, Japanese people often resort to 建前[たてまえ] to avoid conflicts. For example, even if someone disagrees with a decision, they may express support out of politeness. This behavior is not seen as insincerity, but as a way of showing respect to the group.

In situations such as business meetings or family gatherings, the proper use of 建前[たてまえ] demonstrates social maturity. However, it is important to know when this attitude is expected and when it is possible to be more direct. Mastering this balance is crucial for those who wish to communicate effectively in Japan.

Tips for memorizing and using 建前[たてまえ]

An effective way to fix the meaning of 建前[たてまえ] is to associate it with the kanji 建, which refers to construction. Think of how a façade is raised to present something to the public, just like the words chosen in certain situations. This mental image helps to differentiate it from 本音[ほんね].

Another tip is to observe the use of the word in Japanese dramas or news reports, where it frequently appears. Formal contexts, such as political speeches or public statements, are also good examples of 建前[たてまえ] in action. The more you familiarize yourself with these situations, the more natural your learning will be.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 表向き (omote-muki) - The public or external face that a person or situation presents.
• 外面 (sotomuke) - Regarding external appearance, often used to describe a façade.
• 表面 (hyōmen) - Surface exterior of something, also used to describe the superficial appearance of a situation.
• 表 (omote) - The front or visible part of an object; it can refer to a superficial representation.
• 仮面 (kamen) - Mask; symbolizes the idea of hiding the true face or identity.
• 仮面的 (kamemnteki) - Related to being a mask or fictional; refers to something that has the appearance of something, but is not genuine.
• 表向 (omote-muki) - Relationship with what is presented openly, emphasizing the outward aspect.
• 表の (omote no) - Possessive form, meaning "of the face" or "of the exterior".
• 表の顔 (omote no kao) - The face or appearance that is shown; the external character presented to others.
• 表の顔を持つ (omote no kao o motsu) - Having a public face, maintaining an appearance in front of others.
• 表の顔をする (omote no kao o suru) - To act or present oneself with a public face.
• 表の顔を見せる (omote no kao o miseru) - Show the public face or external appearance.
• 表の顔を出す (omote no kao o dasu) - Reveal the public face; expose the external appearance.
• 表の顔を見せかける (omote no kao o misekakeru) - To pretend to have a public appearance or face.
• 表の顔を見せかけて (omote no kao o misekakete) - The act of making oneself seem like a certain public face.
• 表の顔を見せかけた (omote no kao o misekaketa) - Regarding having feigned a public persona in the past.
• 表の顔を見せかけている (omote no kao o misekakete iru) - Currently maintaining the appearance or public face.
• 表の顔を見せかけたように (omote no kao o misekaketa you ni) - In the same way, a public face was presented.
• 表の顔を見せかけていた (omote no kao o misekakete ita) - Was he pretending or maintaining a public face before?
• 表の顔を見せかけています (omote no kao o misekaketeimasu) - Currently, it seems to be creating a public face.
• 表の顔を見せかけているように (omote no kao o misekakete iru you ni) - Acting in a way that seems to maintain a public facade.
• 表の顔を見せかけていたよう (omote no kao o misekakete ita you) - Regarding past actions that seemed to hide the true appearance.

建前

Romaji: tatemae
Kana: たてまえ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Face; official posture; public position or attitude (as opposed to private thoughts)

Meaning in English: face;official stance;public position or attitude (as opposed to private thoughts)

Definition: Maintain the impression and appearance you give to others through words, attitudes, and actions. It may be different from your true feelings and thoughts.

Example Sentences - (建前) tatemae

See below some example sentences:

建前は大切です。

Translation: "Tatemae wa taisetsu desu."

Before is important.

• 建前 (tatemae) - It means "facade" or "appearance" in Japanese, referring to how people present themselves in public or formal situations.
• は (wa) - Japanese grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence.
• 大切 (taisetsu) - means "important" or "valuable" in Japanese.
• です (desu) - auxiliary verb in Japanese that indicates the polite or formal form of the sentence.