実直

• Reading: じっちょく
• Romaji: jitchoku
• Kanji breakdown: 実 (jitsu/mi) — truth, reality; 直 (choku/nao) — straight, direct, honest
• Pronunciation: /dʑit.tɕo.kɯ/

Meaning

Honest; upright; sincere; steady. Describes a person of straightforward and reliable character.

A na-adjective and noun describing someone whose character is genuinely honest, reliable, and without pretence. Stronger than 正直 (honest) in emphasising overall moral steadiness and dependability. Typically used as a compliment for someone's personality, as in 実直な人柄 (an honest character). Has a somewhat literary or formal feel.

Examples

1. 彼は実直な性格で周りから信頼されている。 He is trusted by those around him because of his honest character.
2. 実直に働く姿を見て上司に認められた。 His boss recognized him for the way he worked diligently and honestly.
3. 祖父は実直な人で嘘をついたことがなかった。 My grandfather was an upright man who never told a lie.

Usage Guide

Context: personality, evaluation, literature

Tone: respectful

Origin & History

From Chinese 實直. 実 (jitsu) means 'truth, reality' and 直 (choku) means 'straight, direct, honest.' Together: 'truly straight' in character — genuine honesty.

Cultural Context

Era: Pre-modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal