How to say "genuine" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 純正じゅんせいna-adjective, nounGenuine in the sense of official: made by the original maker rather than a third party, as with genuine parts and accessories for cars, cameras, and other equipment.
- 純粋じゅんすいna-adjective, no-adjectiveIts core sense is 'pure' — unmixed, untainted. As 'genuine' it describes pure, genuine feelings, motives, or intentions: sincerity of heart rather than authenticity of objects.
- 真正しんせいna-adjective, no-adjectiveGenuine in the strict sense: the authentic thing itself, not a fake, counterfeit, or imitation. It suits statements that something is the real thing — the true original, not a copy.
- 本格的ほんかくてきna-adjectiveGenuine as 'full-fledged': the real, serious version of something — an authentic-style dish, a full-scale effort or storm. Its focus is seriousness and proper form rather than authenticity as opposed to fakes.
- 生粋きっすいno-adjectiveGenuine by birth: natural-born, trueborn. It describes people whose identity is genuine through and through — a born-and-bred local, a natural-born craftsman — rooted in birth and lineage rather than in objects.
Pick by what is genuine: 純正 for official maker's goods, 純粋 for unmixed feelings and motives, 真正 for authenticity as opposed to fakes, 本格的 for full-scale seriousness, and 生粋 for people genuine by birth.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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