1.
reputation; public image; what others think
How one appears to outsiders or the public. Often used in the context of worrying about or protecting one's social image, especially in expressions about shame or embarrassment.
外聞が悪い。
It looks bad to others.
外聞を気にして本音を言えない。
I can't say what I really think because I'm worried about appearances.
外聞もはばからず大声で泣いてしまった。
I burst into tears loudly, not caring what anyone thought.
Composed of 外 (outside) + 聞 (what is heard). Literally means "what is heard by those outside" — i.e., one's reputation or how things appear to others. Frequently used in negative contexts, expressing concern about looking bad.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 外聞が悪い: it looks bad (to others)
- 外聞を気にする: to worry about appearances
- 外聞もはばからず: without caring about appearances
- 外聞を繕う: to keep up appearances
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 体裁: appearances — focuses on outward form and how things look on the surface
- 世間体: social appearances — one's standing in the eyes of the community; very close in meaning
- 評判: reputation — based on actual evaluation by others, not just concern about image
- 面目: honor, face — one's dignity or prestige in social contexts