体裁(ていさい)

ていさい
noun
appearance, format, keeping up appearances
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(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:

  • 体裁(ていさい)を整(ととの)える (to put in proper form)
  • 体裁(ていさい)が良(よ)い/悪(わる)い (looks good/bad)
  • 体裁(ていさい)を気(き)にする (to care about appearances)
  • ～の体裁(ていさい) (the format of ~)

RELATED WORDS:

  • 世間体(せけんてい) (reputation, appearances to others)
  • 面目(めんぼく) (face, honor)
  • 書式(しょしき) (format - documents only)
general
Added 2026.1.31 20:28
09000/09154_teisai