真面目

• Reading: まじめ
• Romaji: majime
• Kanji breakdown: 真 (shin/ma) — true, genuine; 面 (men) — face, surface; 目 (moku/me) — eye, look
• Pronunciation: /ma.dʑi.me/

Meaning

Serious; earnest; diligent. Having a sincere and hardworking character.

A na-adjective (真面目な) that is overwhelmingly positive in Japanese culture. Describes someone who is reliable, honest, and takes responsibilities seriously. Unlike in English where serious can sound stiff, 真面目 is a genuine compliment in most Japanese contexts.

Examples

1. 彼はとても真面目な学生です。 He is a very serious student.
2. 真面目に勉強すれば、きっと合格できる。 If you study earnestly, you'll definitely pass.
3. もう少し真面目に話を聞いてください。 Please listen to what I'm saying a little more seriously.

Usage Guide

Context: school, workplace, personality description

Tone: positive

Origin & History

The characters 真 (ma, true) and 面目 (menmoku, face/dignity) suggest showing one's true face. The reading まじめ is an established kun-yomi, reflecting native Japanese speech patterns for this concept.

Cultural Context

Era: Edo period

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal