名声

• Reading: めいせい
• Romaji: meisei
• Kanji breakdown: 名 (mei) — name, fame | 声 (sei) — voice, sound, report
• Pronunciation: /me.i.se.i/

Meaning

Fame; reputation; renown; the widespread recognition of a person's achievements or character.

More elevated and literary than 知名度 (name recognition) or 評判 (reputation), 名声 implies an established, often enduring fame earned through talent, achievement, or virtue. It collocates naturally with verbs such as 得る (to gain), 築く (to build), 高める (to elevate), and 失う (to lose). 名声が高い describes someone widely acclaimed, while 名声が地に落ちる vividly describes a dramatic fall from grace.

Examples

1. その科学者は若くして世界的な名声を築き、国際学会で重要視されている。 The scientist built a global reputation at a young age and is held in high regard at international academic conferences.
2. スキャンダルが報じられた後、彼の名声は一夜にして地に落ちた。 After the scandal was reported, his reputation collapsed overnight.
3. 名声よりも真実を伝えることを優先すると、その記者は語った。 The journalist said they prioritised conveying the truth over seeking fame.

Usage Guide

Context: reputation, careers, social standing, journalism

Tone: serious

Origin & History

Compound of 名 (mei) meaning 'name, fame' and 声 (sei) meaning 'voice, sound, report'. The combination captures the idea of one's name being widely spoken of — 'the sound of one's name' resonating publicly. Common in literary Chinese and adopted into formal Japanese.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical–Present

Generation: Educated adults

Social background: Universal