建前
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Noun meaning a public stance or facade. Used to describe the official or socially acceptable position one takes, often contrasted with true feelings. Example: 『彼の意見は建前だ』 (kare no iken wa tatemae da, 'His opinion is a public stance.').
Theme

At a company meeting, User and their senior colleague Tanaka-san discuss the difference between public and private opinions on a new project.

建前

たてまえ

position (public stance)

Culture & SocietyTraditions & Customs

Memory Hook

Imagine a public building's facade—it's the 'front' or 'stance' shown to the world. 'Tatemae' sounds like 'tate' (build) + 'mae' (front)—the built front or public position.

Cultural Note

In Japanese culture, 『建前』 (tatemae, 'public stance') contrasts with 『本音』 (honne, 'true feelings'). It's a key concept in social harmony, where people often express polite or socially acceptable views in public, reserving their real opinions for private settings.

Forms

Base: 建前Noun meaning a public stance or facade. Used to describe the official or socially acceptable position one takes, often contrasted with true feelings. Example: 『彼の意見は建前だ』 (kare no iken wa tatemae da, 'His opinion is a public stance.').