誇り

• Reading: ほこり
• Romaji: hokori
• Kanji breakdown: 誇 (ko/hokoru) — pride, boast
• Pronunciation: /ho.ko.ɾi/

Meaning

Pride; a feeling of satisfaction and honor in one's achievements or identity.

A noun derived from the verb 誇る (hokoru, to be proud of). Expresses positive pride and self-respect, not arrogance. Key patterns: 誇りに思う (hokori ni omou, to feel proud), 誇りを持つ (hokori wo motsu, to have pride). Often used in contexts of national pride, professional pride, or family honor. Not to be confused with 埃 (hokori, dust), which is a homophone.

Examples

1. 自分の仕事に誇りを持っている。 I take pride in my work.
2. 両親は息子の成功を誇りに思っている。 His parents are proud of their son's success.
3. 日本の文化は私たちの誇りです。 Japanese culture is our pride.

Usage Guide

Context: achievements, identity, culture

Tone: positive

Origin & History

Noun form of 誇る (hokoru, to boast/be proud). The kanji 誇 combines 言 (words) and 夸 (to boast), literally meaning to speak with pride.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal