世間体

• Reading: せけんてい
• Romaji: sekentei
• Kanji breakdown: 世 (se/yo) — world, generation; 間 (ken/ma) — between, society; 体 (tei/karada) — body, form, appearance
• Pronunciation: /se.keɴ.teː/

Meaning

Public appearances; social reputation; face; how one is perceived by society.

A culturally significant concept in Japan reflecting the importance of maintaining a respectable image in the eyes of one's community. 世間体を気にする (worrying about public appearances) is a common behavioural driver. The concept is related to 恥 (shame culture) and contrasted with more individualistic Western values. Often appears in family and social discussions.

Examples

1. 世間体を気にして、本音を言えない人が多い。 Many people worry so much about appearances that they cannot speak their true feelings.
2. 彼女は世間体のために不幸な結婚を続けていた。 She continued an unhappy marriage for the sake of appearances.
3. 親は世間体を優先して、子どもの意志を無視した。 The parents prioritised appearances and ignored their child's wishes.

Usage Guide

Context: social norms, family dynamics, Japanese culture

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 世間 (the public, society) and 体 (form, appearance, body). Together they evoke 'the form one presents to the world.' Deeply embedded in Japanese social psychology, the concept reflects collectivist pressure to conform to community expectations.

Cultural Context

Era: Traditional–Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal