Meaning and Usage
"誠実" (せいじつ) means sincere, honest, or faithful. It describes a person's character as genuine and trustworthy. This word is often used to praise someone's attitude or behavior, especially in personal or professional contexts.
Common Collocations
- 誠実な人 (せいじつなひと): a sincere person
- 誠実に働く (せいじつにはたらく): to work sincerely
- 誠実さを持つ (せいじつさをもつ): to have sincerity
Nuance and Register
"誠実" carries a positive and respectful nuance. It is commonly used in formal and polite conversations, such as job interviews, letters, or when describing someone's good qualities.
Usage Tips
When using "誠実," focus on describing someone's honest and reliable nature. Avoid confusing it with words that mean just "honest" in a legal or factual sense; "誠実" emphasizes heartfelt sincerity and faithfulness.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "誠実" with "正直" (しょうじき), which also means honest. "正直" is more about truthfulness and straightforwardness, while "誠実" highlights sincerity and integrity in character.