体裁(ていさい)

ていさい
noun
appearance, format, keeping up appearances
abstract
1. outward appearance, form, style
The external appearance or form of something, how it looks on the surface.
体裁(ていさい)が良(よ)い
to look good/presentable
体裁(ていさい)を整(ととの)える
to put in proper form
とりあえず体裁(ていさい)だけは整(ととの)えた。
For now, I at least got it into proper form.
2. format, layout
The format or layout of a document, book, or other material.
報告書(ほうこくしょ)の体裁(ていさい)
the format of a report
この体裁(ていさい)で提出(ていしゅつ)してください。
Please submit it in this format.
書式(しょしき)の体裁(ていさい)を統一(とういつ)する必要(ひつよう)がある。
We need to standardize the document format.
3. keeping up appearances, saving face
Concern for how one appears to others; maintaining dignity or reputation in social situations.
体裁(ていさい)を気(き)にする
to be concerned about appearances
体裁(ていさい)が悪(わる)い
to be embarrassing/awkward
体裁(ていさい)ばかり気(き)にしていると、本質(ほんしつ)を見失(みうしな)う。
If you only care about appearances, you'll lose sight of what really matters.

Usage: The meaning depends on context. In formal or business settings, often refers to format (sense 2). In social contexts, often relates to keeping up appearances (sense 3).

Nuance: When used about social situations (sense 3), 体裁(ていさい) can have negative connotations of being overly concerned with superficial appearances rather than substance.

Common collocations

Related words

Related Words

Synonym: 面目(めんぼく) (face, honor)
Synonym: 世間体(せけんてい) (reputation in society)
Related: 書式(しょしき) (format)
Related: 見栄(みば)え (appearance)
Compare: 体面(たいめん) (honor)
Compare: 外聞(がいぶん) (reputation)
general
Added 2026.1.31 20:28 · Revised 2026.9.4 21:29
09000/09154_teisai