How to say "self-confidence" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 自信じしんnounThe direct word for confidence in oneself: a settled belief that you can do something or handle a situation. Use it for self-confidence about one's abilities, judgment, or chances of success.
- 自負じふnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbCovers self-confidence that shades into pride: thinking highly of oneself and being proud of one's abilities or achievements. Choose it when the emphasis falls on that pride rather than on plain assurance.
- 意気地いくじnounFor plain self-confidence this is seldom the word you want: it really means guts, backbone, or self-respect — the spirit that keeps a person from yielding. Use it only when confidence means that kind of mettle.
Use 自信 for plain confidence in yourself or your abilities; 自負 when that confidence amounts to pride in what you can do or have achieved; and 意気地 only for confidence as guts, backbone, or self-respect.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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