Japanese Symbol for
誇りhokori
pride · dignity · self-respect
Readings
Meaning
Pride, dignity, self-respect. 誇り (hokori) is the positive form of pride — earned pride through achievement or belonging. Japanese culture values this kind of collective and craft pride, while discouraging arrogant self-promotion (自慢 — jiman).
Example words
自慢
jiman
pride, boasting (can be excessive)
プライド
puraido
pride (loanword, personal pride)
誇らしい
hokorashii
proud, praiseworthy
職人気質
shokunin katagi
craftsman's spirit, artisan's pride
郷土愛
kyōdo-ai
pride in one's hometown
名誉
meiyo
honour, prestige (pride in reputation)
職人気質 (shokunin katagi — artisan's spirit) is Japan's most celebrated form of pride — the relentless pursuit of perfection in one's craft, regardless of whether anyone notices. A sushi chef who trains for 10 years just to learn how to slice fish embodies this. 出る杭は打たれる (deru kui wa utareru — the nail that sticks out gets hammered) reflects the pressure against individual pride that stands apart from the group.
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