肖像画
肖像画 30초 만에
- A formal Japanese word for a portrait painting or drawing.
- Commonly used in art, history, and legal contexts (portrait rights).
- Distinguished from 'jigazō' (self-portrait) and 'shashin' (casual photo).
- Essential for discussing historical figures or visiting Japanese art museums.
The word 肖像画 (shōzōga) is a formal Japanese noun that specifically refers to a portrait. It is composed of three kanji characters: 肖 (resemble/likeness), 像 (image/statue), and 画 (picture/painting). Together, they create a term that describes a visual representation of a specific human being, typically focusing on their face and expression. While it most traditionally refers to oil paintings found in museums, it can also encompass drawings, sketches, and in certain formal contexts, high-art photography. In daily conversation, you might not use this word to describe a quick selfie, but you would certainly use it when walking through an art gallery like the Louvre or discussing the historical depiction of a famous shogun.
- Artistic Context
- Used primarily in art history and museum settings to categorize works focused on human subjects. It implies a level of formality and intentionality in the creation of the image.
- Legal Context
- Related to the term '肖像権' (shōzōken), which refers to portrait rights or the right to one's own image, a crucial concept in modern Japanese privacy law.
美術館で王妃の美しい肖像画を鑑賞しました。(I viewed a beautiful portrait of the queen at the art museum.)
Historically, 肖像画 played a vital role in Japan before the advent of photography. Samurai, monks, and nobility would have their likenesses captured on silk or paper to preserve their legacy or for use in memorial services. These were often called 'nise-e' (likeness pictures) in earlier periods, but the modern term 肖像画 became standardized during the Meiji era as Western art techniques and terminology were integrated into Japanese culture. When you use this word today, it carries a nuance of respect and artistic value. If you are describing a picture of a friend on your phone, you would use 'shashin' (photo), but if that friend was the subject of a professional oil painting, 肖像画 is the correct term.
彼は有名な画家に自分の肖像画を描かせた。(He had a famous painter paint his portrait.)
- Etymology
- The first kanji 肖 means 'resemble' or 'be like.' It is often used in words relating to hereditary traits or likeness. The second kanji 像 means 'statue' or 'image.' Combined with 画 (painting), it literally means 'a painting that resembles an image.'
In contemporary Japan, you will encounter this word most frequently in museum brochures, history textbooks, and news reports regarding privacy rights. It is a word that bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern legal frameworks. For instance, when discussing the famous 'Mona Lisa,' Japanese speakers will invariably refer to it as a 'shōzōga.' It is also common in literature to describe a mysterious painting hanging in a dark hallway of an old mansion, often setting a gothic or formal tone for the narrative.
その古い館の壁には、先祖代々の肖像画が並んでいる。(Portraits of successive generations of ancestors are lined up on the walls of that old manor.)
Using 肖像画 correctly involves understanding the verbs that typically accompany it. Because it is a physical object (a painting), it is often the object of verbs like 描く (kaku - to draw/paint), 飾る (kazaru - to display/decorate), or 鑑賞する (kanshō suru - to appreciate/view). When you want to say 'a portrait of someone,' the pattern is [Person] の 肖像画. For example, 'Lincoln's portrait' would be 'Rinkan no shōzōga.' This structure is simple but essential for clear communication in artistic discussions.
この美術館には、ナポレオンの肖像画が展示されています。(Napoleon's portrait is on display in this museum.)
- Common Verb Pairings
- 肖像画を【描く】: To paint a portrait.
肖像画を【依頼する】: To commission a portrait.
肖像画を【修復する】: To restore a portrait.
When discussing the quality or style of a portrait, you might use adjectives like 写実的な (shajitsuteki na - realistic) or 見事な (migoto na - splendid). In more advanced levels, you might talk about how a portrait 'captures the essence' of a person, using phrases like その人の本質を捉えている (sono hito no honshitsu o toraete iru). It is important to distinguish 肖像画 from 自画像 (jigazō), which is specifically a self-portrait. If you painted yourself, you would say 'jigazō,' but if you painted your mother, it is a 'shōzōga.'
彼は自分の肖像画を居間に飾るのが好きだ。(He likes to hang his portrait in the living room.)
In a classroom or academic setting, you might use the word when discussing historical figures. For example, 'We can see what the Emperor looked like through this portrait.' In Japanese, this would be: この肖像画を通して、当時の天皇の姿を知ることができます。 Notice how the word acts as a bridge to understanding the past. It is rarely used in slang or very casual speech because the act of portraiture itself is somewhat elevated or formal.
その画家は、生涯で何百枚もの肖像画を残した。(That painter left behind hundreds of portraits in his lifetime.)
- Descriptive Phrases
- 肖像画の【モデル】: The subject/model of the portrait.
肖像画の【背景】: The background of the portrait.
肖像画の【筆致】: The brushwork of the portrait.
You will most commonly encounter 肖像画 in environments related to art, history, and law. If you visit a major Japanese museum like the Tokyo National Museum, the labels next to paintings of historical figures will always use this term. Similarly, in Japanese history textbooks (rekishi kyōkasho), when a picture of Oda Nobunaga or Tokugawa Ieyasu is shown, the caption will refer to it as a 肖像画. It is the academic standard for describing such artifacts.
教科書に載っている織田信長の肖像画は非常に有名です。(The portrait of Oda Nobunaga in the textbook is very famous.)
Another modern context is the legal sphere, specifically regarding 肖像権 (shōzōken). You might hear this on the news or read it in social media terms of service. While 'shōzōga' refers to the painting itself, 'shōzō' refers to the person's likeness. Therefore, discussions about whether it is okay to post a photo of a stranger online often revolve around 'shōzōken.' Hearing the word 'shōzō' in this context reminds people of the formal value of a person's image.
In high-end interior design or real estate, you might hear the word when describing the decor of a classic Western-style house (yōkan). A real estate agent might say, 'The study is decorated with impressive portraits,' using the word to add an air of sophistication and history to the property. It suggests a lineage or a connection to the past that a simple 'photo' (shashin) does not.
ニュースで、盗まれた名画の肖像画が発見されたと報じていた。(The news reported that a stolen masterpiece portrait had been discovered.)
- Academic Usage
- In university lectures on art history, professors will analyze 'shōzōga' in terms of their symbolic meaning, such as the clothes the subject wears or the objects they hold.
Lastly, in the world of classical music, programs often include a 'shōzōga' of the composer whose work is being performed. When you open a program for a Beethoven concert, you'll see his iconic scowling face, and the caption will likely use this word. It reinforces the 'great man' theory of history and art, elevating the subject to a status worth documenting through formal portraiture.
One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is using 肖像画 to describe any picture of a person. In modern English, 'portrait' can refer to a 'portrait mode' photo on an iPhone. In Japanese, however, calling a casual digital photo a 'shōzōga' sounds incredibly stiff and unnatural, almost as if you are joking. For digital or casual photography, use ポートレート (pōtorēto) or simply 写真 (shashin).
✕ スマホで私の肖像画を撮って。 (Incorrect: Take a portrait of me with your smartphone.)
○ スマホで私の写真を撮って。 (Correct: Take a photo of me with your smartphone.)
Another common error is confusing 肖像画 (shōzōga) with 自画像 (jigazō). If you are the artist and the subject, you must use 'jigazō.' Using 'shōzōga' for a self-portrait isn't grammatically wrong, but it's imprecise. It's like saying 'a painting of a person' instead of 'a self-portrait.' Similarly, don't confuse it with 人物画 (jinbutsuga). While 'shōzōga' is a painting of a specific, identifiable individual, 'jinbutsuga' (figure painting) can be a painting of any person, even an anonymous model or a fictional character.
Wait for the pronunciation! Some learners misread the first kanji 肖 as 消 (shō - to erase). While they sound the same, their meanings are opposite. Make sure you associate 'shō' in this word with 'likeness' or 'resemblance.' Also, ensure you don't drop the 'ga' at the end. 'Shōzō' refers to the concept of the likeness/image, while 'shōzōga' refers to the physical painting. If you say 'I bought a shōzō,' it sounds like you bought someone's abstract likeness rather than a physical piece of art.
- Word Mix-ups
- 肖像画 (Portrait) vs. 風景画 (Landscape)
肖像画 (Portrait) vs. 静物画 (Still life)
Lastly, be careful with the honorifics. While you wouldn't usually use 'o' (the polite prefix) with 'shōzōga,' you should use polite language when discussing portraits of esteemed figures like members of the Imperial Family or important historical icons. Using overly casual verbs like 'miru' instead of 'haiken suru' (to humbly view) when looking at a royal portrait might be seen as slightly disrespectful in very formal Japanese settings.
While 肖像画 is the most formal and standard term for a portrait painting, there are several alternatives depending on the medium and the context. Understanding these will help you sound more like a native speaker and choose the right word for the right situation.
- ポートレート (Pōtorēto)
- Borrowed from English, this is used mostly for photography and modern graphic design. If you're talking about a photoshoot, this is the word to use.
- 人物画 (Jinbutsuga)
- A broader term meaning 'figure painting.' It includes any art where humans are the primary subject, even if they aren't a specific individual.
- 自画像 (Jigazō)
- Specifically a self-portrait. Think of Van Gogh's paintings of himself; those are always called 'jigazō.'
彼女は人物画が得意だが、特に肖像画に定評がある。(She is good at figure painting, but she has a particularly high reputation for portraits.)
In historical contexts, you might see 似顔絵 (nigaoe). While 'shōzōga' is formal and artistic, 'nigaoe' usually refers to a caricature or a sketch that focuses on catching a person's likeness in a more casual or commercial way, like the artists you see at theme parks. If you get a fun drawing of your face at Tokyo Disneyland, that's a 'nigaoe,' not a 'shōzōga.'
For religious figures, the term 頂相 (chinso) is used specifically for portraits of Zen masters. This is a very niche term you'll only encounter if you study Japanese Buddhism or visit ancient Zen temples. It highlights how Japanese has specialized vocabulary for portraits depending on the status of the person and the purpose of the image.
この寺には、開祖の頂相が大切に保管されている。(The portrait of the founder is carefully preserved in this temple.)
When discussing photography specifically, 顔写真 (kaojashin) is the common term for a 'headshot' or an ID photo. If you need a photo for your passport or resume, you ask for a 'kaojashin.' Calling it a 'shōzōga' would imply you want an oil painting of yourself for your driver's license, which would certainly confuse the clerk!
How Formal Is It?
재미있는 사실
The character for 'zō' (像) actually contains the radical for 'human' (亻) next to 'elephant' (象). This is because humans used elephant statues/images to represent things they couldn't see directly.
발음 가이드
- Pronouncing 'shō' as 'sho' (short vowel).
- Confusing the pitch accent with English stress.
- Misreading '肖' as 'shō' (to erase) in written form.
- Ending with 'ka' instead of 'ga'.
- Omitting the long vowel marker in 'zō'.
난이도
Kanji are somewhat complex but common in art contexts.
The character '肖' and '像' require practice to write correctly.
Pronunciation is straightforward with long vowels.
Easy to recognize if you know 'shōzō' and 'ga'.
다음에 무엇을 배울까
선수 학습
다음에 배울 것
고급
알아야 할 문법
Particle 'no' for possession/subject
王様の肖像画 (The King's portrait)
Verb nominalization with 'no'
肖像画を描くのは難しい。 (Painting portraits is difficult.)
Passive voice for art creation
この肖像画は100年前に描かれた。 (This portrait was painted 100 years ago.)
Respectful language (Keigo)
肖像画を拝見します。 (I humbly view the portrait.)
Compound nouns with 'ka' (person)
肖像画家 (Portrait painter)
수준별 예문
これは有名な肖像画です。
This is a famous portrait.
Simple A desu B structure.
肖像画を見ます。
I look at a portrait.
Direct object with 'wo'.
きれいな肖像画ですね。
It's a beautiful portrait, isn't it?
Adjective + noun + ne.
だれの肖像画ですか?
Whose portrait is it?
Question word 'dare' with 'no'.
肖像画を描きます。
I draw a portrait.
Verb 'kaku' (to draw).
美術館に肖像画があります。
There is a portrait in the art museum.
Existence pattern with 'ga arimasu'.
この肖像画は古いです。
This portrait is old.
Adjective 'furui' (old).
父の肖像画です。
It is a portrait of my father.
Possessive 'no'.
美術館で古い肖像画を見ました。
I saw an old portrait at the museum.
Past tense verb 'mimashita'.
女王の肖像画はとても大きいです。
The Queen's portrait is very large.
Adverb 'totemo' + adjective 'ookii'.
彼は肖像画を描くのが上手です。
He is good at painting portraits.
Nominalizing a verb with 'no ga jouzu'.
この肖像画はだれが描きましたか?
Who painted this portrait?
Questioning the subject with 'ga'.
肖像画を部屋に飾りたいです。
I want to decorate my room with a portrait.
Desire form '-tai'.
有名な画家の肖像画を鑑賞した。
I appreciated a portrait by a famous painter.
Formal verb 'kanshō suru'.
この肖像画のモデルはだれですか?
Who is the model for this portrait?
Using 'moderu' (model).
教科書で織田信長の肖像画を見た。
I saw Oda Nobunaga's portrait in a textbook.
Location 'de' and object 'wo'.
その肖像画は、まるで生きているかのように見えます。
The portrait looks as if it were alive.
Simile pattern 'maru de... ka no you ni'.
彼女は自分の肖像画をプロの画家に依頼した。
She commissioned a professional painter to do her portrait.
Verb 'iraisuru' (to commission/request).
肖像画の背景には、美しい風景が描かれている。
A beautiful landscape is painted in the background of the portrait.
Passive form 'kakarete iru'.
江戸時代の肖像画から、当時の服装がわかります。
We can learn about the clothing of the time from Edo period portraits.
Source 'kara' and potential 'wakaru'.
彼は肖像画だけでなく、風景画も得意だ。
He is good at not only portraits but also landscapes.
Pattern '...dake de naku ...mo'.
この肖像画は、彼の若い頃の姿を捉えている。
This portrait captures his appearance from when he was young.
Verb 'toraeru' (to capture).
肖像画を修復するために、専門家が呼ばれた。
A specialist was called to restore the portrait.
Purpose 'tame ni' and passive 'yobareta'.
インターネットで他人の肖像画を勝手に使うのは、肖像権の侵害です。
Using someone else's portrait without permission on the internet is an infringement of portrait rights.
Nominalized phrase as subject.
この肖像画は、モデルの内面的な強さを表現している。
This portrait expresses the model's inner strength.
Abstract noun 'naimenteki na tsuyosa'.
当時の貴族たちは、富を誇示するために豪華な肖像画を描かせた。
Nobles of that time had luxurious portraits painted to show off their wealth.
Causative 'kakaseta' and purpose 'tame ni'.
肖像画における光と影の使い方が、非常にドラマチックだ。
The use of light and shadow in the portrait is very dramatic.
Contextual 'ni okeru' (in/regarding).
写真が普及する前、肖像画は記録としての重要な役割を果たしていた。
Before photography became widespread, portraits played an important role as records.
Verb phrase 'yakuwari wo hatasu'.
その肖像画の作者は不明だが、技術の高さがうかがえる。
The artist of that portrait is unknown, but one can see the high level of skill.
Conjunction 'daga' and verb 'ukagau'.
肖像画の繊細な筆致が、人物の優しさを際立たせている。
The delicate brushwork of the portrait highlights the person's kindness.
Verb 'kiwadataseru' (to make stand out).
彼は肖像画の依頼主の要望に応えて、少し若く描いた。
In response to the client's request, he painted the portrait slightly younger.
Pattern 'ni kotaete' (in response to).
肖像画の保存状態が悪く、一部が剥がれ落ちている。
The preservation state of the portrait is poor, and parts of it are peeling off.
Compound noun 'hozon joutai'.
肖像画は単なる外見の模写ではなく、画家の主観が反映されるものである。
A portrait is not merely a copy of appearance, but something that reflects the artist's subjectivity.
Pattern 'tannaru... de wa naku'.
その肖像画には、当時の社会情勢が象徴的に描き込まれている。
The social conditions of the time are symbolically depicted in that portrait.
Compound verb 'kakikomu'.
レンブラントの肖像画は、人間の深淵な孤独を見事に描き出している。
Rembrandt's portraits brilliantly depict the profound loneliness of human beings.
Adjective 'shinan na' (profound).
肖像画を通じて、被写体と画家の間の心理的な駆け引きが感じ取れる。
Through the portrait, one can sense the psychological maneuvering between the subject and the artist.
Verb 'kanjitoru' (to sense/perceive).
近代における肖像画の変遷を辿ると、個人のアイデンティティの確立が見て取れる。
Tracing the transition of portraits in the modern era, one can see the establishment of individual identity.
Verb 'tadoru' (to trace).
肖像画の法的な定義を巡って、専門家の間でも意見が分かれている。
Opinions are divided even among experts regarding the legal definition of a portrait.
Pattern 'wo megutte' (concerning/over).
写実主義の肖像画は、理想化を排し、人間のありのままの姿を追求した。
Realist portraits rejected idealization and pursued the true state of human beings.
Verb 'haishi' (to reject/exclude).
デジタル時代の今日、肖像画の概念はより広義に解釈されるようになっている。
In today's digital age, the concept of a portrait is being interpreted in a broader sense.
Adverbial 'kougi ni' (broadly).
肖像画という形式が孕む、権力構造の再生産という側面を看過してはならない。
One must not overlook the aspect of reproducing power structures inherent in the form of portraiture.
Verb 'haramu' (to involve/be pregnant with).
その肖像画の静謐な佇まいは、観る者を深い思索へと誘う。
The serene presence of that portrait invites the viewer into deep contemplation.
Verb 'izanau' (to invite/lead).
肖像画における『似ている』という概念の多層性を、現象学的に考察する。
We will phenomenologically consider the multilayered nature of the concept of 'resemblance' in portraiture.
Adverbial 'genshougakuteki ni'.
画家の晩年の肖像画には、死の影と生への執着が交錯している。
In the portraits of the painter's later years, the shadow of death and an obsession with life intersect.
Verb 'kousaku suru' (to intersect).
肖像画の真正性を担保するための科学的な鑑定が行われた。
A scientific appraisal was conducted to guarantee the authenticity of the portrait.
Verb 'tanpo suru' (to guarantee/collateralize).
肖像画は、不在の人間を現前させるという、呪術的な機能を根底に持っている。
Portraits fundamentally possess a magical function of making an absent person present.
Verb 'genzensaseru' (to make present).
ポストモダン以降、肖像画における『主体』の解体が進んでいる。
Since postmodernism, the deconstruction of the 'subject' in portraiture has been progressing.
Noun 'kaitai' (deconstruction).
その肖像画は、静物画のような即物性と、肖像画特有の精神性が同居している。
That portrait coexists with a matter-of-factness like a still life and a spirituality unique to portraits.
Verb 'doukyo suru' (to coexist).
자주 쓰는 조합
자주 쓰는 구문
— Looking perfectly still or beautiful like a painting.
彼女は肖像画のように美しい。
— To release or exhibit a portrait to the public.
ついに彼の肖像画を世に出す時が来た。
— To make a portrait look incredibly lifelike.
その画家は肖像画に命を吹き込んだ。
— Someone who looks exactly like a character from an old painting.
彼は肖像画から抜け出したような貴公子だ。
— The traces or resemblance seen in a portrait.
彼には肖像画の面影がある。
— To present a portrait as a formal gift.
引退する校長に肖像画を贈呈した。
— A metaphor for a portrait being very expressive.
まるで肖像画が語りかけてくるようだ。
— To make a rough drawing of a portrait.
展示室で肖像画をスケッチした。
— To copy a famous portrait for practice.
モナリザの肖像画を模写する。
— A master of portrait painting.
彼は18世紀における肖像画の巨匠だ。
자주 혼동되는 단어
Confused because both are portraits, but 'jigazō' is only for self-portraits.
Confused because 'jinbutsuga' is broader and doesn't require a specific real person.
Confused because they share the first two kanji, but 'ken' means rights, not a painting.
관용어 및 표현
— To finish the most important part of a work; to give it 'soul.'
最後に肖像画に目を描き入れ、完成させた。
Artistic/Metaphorical— A common superstition or trope about haunted paintings.
夜中に肖像画が動くという噂がある。
Supernatural— Secrets hidden behind a formal appearance.
その肖像画の裏には悲しい物語がある。
Literary— To disgrace someone's legacy or image (variant of 顔に泥を塗る).
先祖の肖像画に泥を塗るような真似はするな。
Idiomatic— To reflect on history or a person's life deeply.
彼は黙って肖像画を見つめていた。
Literary— Used to describe a positive feeling or a spooky occurrence.
成功を報告すると、肖像画が笑った気がした。
Metaphorical— To reveal the truth behind a facade.
偽りの肖像画を剥がし、真実を暴く。
Figurative— To preserve a moment or a person forever.
彼女の若さを肖像画の中に閉じ込めた。
Poetic— The person depicted in the portrait.
肖像画の主は、かつての城主だった。
Formal— To contemplate deeply while looking at a portrait.
彼は肖像画と対話するように絵筆を動かした。
Artistic혼동하기 쉬운
Both mean a picture of a person.
Shōzōga is formal/artistic; Nigaoe is casual/caricature.
美術館にあるのは肖像画、お祭りで描いてもらうのは似顔絵。
Both are portraits of people.
Iei is specifically for a deceased person used in a funeral context.
お葬式で使うのは遺影です。
Both show a person's face.
Kaojashin is a practical photo (ID/Passport); Shōzōga is an artistic painting.
免許証に必要なのは顔写真です。
Shares the kanji '像'.
Butsuzō is a statue of Buddha; Shōzōga is a painting of a person.
お寺にある彫刻は仏像です。
Both end in 'ga'.
Fūkeiga is a landscape; Shōzōga is a person.
山や川の絵は風景画です。
문장 패턴
これは[Person]の肖像画です。
これは私の父の肖像画です。
[Place]に肖像画があります。
美術館に古い肖像画があります。
[Person]は肖像画を描くのが[Adjective]です。
彼女は肖像画を描くのが上手です。
[Person]に肖像画を[Verb-Causative]。
有名な画家に肖像画を描かせた。
肖像画を通じて[Abstract Concept]がわかる。
肖像画を通じて当時の文化がわかる。
肖像画における[Technical Term]の重要性。
肖像画における光影の重要性。
[Person]の肖像画を[Verb-Appreciate]。
ピカソの肖像画を鑑賞した。
肖像画を[Place]に飾る。
肖像画を壁に飾る。
어휘 가족
명사
동사
형용사
관련
사용법
Common in educational, artistic, and legal contexts; rare in daily casual chat.
-
Using 肖像画 for a quick photo.
→
写真 (shashin)
肖像画 is too formal for casual photography.
-
Using 肖像画 for a self-portrait.
→
自画像 (jigazō)
While technically a portrait, 'jigazō' is the specific term for self-portraits.
-
Misspelling 肖 as 消.
→
肖
消 means to erase; 肖 means to resemble.
-
Using 肖像画 for a statue.
→
彫像 (chōzō) or 銅像 (dōzō)
画 implies a 2D painting or drawing.
-
Omitting 'ga' in casual talk.
→
肖像画
Without 'ga', 'shōzō' means 'likeness' or 'image' in a more abstract sense.
팁
The Kanji Logic
肖 (resemble) + 像 (image) + 画 (picture). It's a 'resemblance image picture.' Use this logic to remember the meaning.
Imperial Portraits
Portraits of the Japanese Emperor were historically called 'Go-shin-ei' and treated with extreme reverence.
Verb Pairing
Always pair with 'kaku' (to draw) or 'egaku' (to depict) for natural-sounding sentences.
Stroke Order
The kanji '像' has many strokes. Take your time with the 'elephant' part on the right.
Pitch Accent
Keep the pitch flat. Don't stress the 'ga' like an English word.
Museum Labels
When in Japan, look for '肖像画' on museum labels to see it used in its natural habitat.
Portrait Rights
Remember 'shōzōken' (portrait rights) if you are a content creator in Japan.
Broaden Your Art Terms
Learn 'fūkeiga' (landscape) and 'seibutsu-ga' (still life) at the same time as 'shōzōga'.
Kanji Recognition
Even if you can't write it, recognizing '肖' and '画' will help you guess the meaning.
Subject vs Artist
Distinguish clearly between the 'moderu' (subject) and the 'gaka' (painter).
암기하기
기억법
Think of 'SHOw' (肖) the 'ZOne' (像) of the 'GArden' (画) where the king's portrait is kept.
시각적 연상
Imagine a tall, gold-framed oil painting of a samurai hanging in a dark, wooden hallway of an old Japanese house.
Word Web
챌린지
Try to find three famous 肖像画 in a virtual museum tour and describe them using the word 肖像画.
어원
Composed of three Sino-Japanese characters (Kanji). 'Shō' (肖) comes from a character meaning 'to resemble a parent.' 'Zō' (像) originally meant 'elephant' but came to mean 'image' or 'statue' because people in ancient China found elephant bones and tried to imagine (image) what they looked like. 'Ga' (画) means 'to draw' or 'a picture.'
원래 의미: A picture that resembles an image.
Sino-Japanese (Kango)문화적 맥락
Be careful when using 'iei' (funeral portrait) vs 'shōzōga'. 'Iei' is strictly for the deceased and carries a heavy emotional weight.
In the West, portraits are often associated with the Renaissance and individual achievement. In Japan, they often carry a more memorial or lineage-based nuance.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
Art Museum
- この肖像画の作者は?
- 展示室はどこですか?
- フラッシュ撮影禁止です。
- 音声ガイドを借ります。
History Class
- 教科書を開いてください。
- この人物を知っていますか?
- 当時の服装に注目しましょう。
- 肖像画から読み取れること。
Art Studio
- 肖像画の依頼を受けました。
- モデルになってください。
- 背景をどうしますか?
- デッサンから始めます。
Legal Discussion
- 肖像権の侵害です。
- 許可を得ていますか?
- プライバシーを守りましょう。
- 損害賠償を請求します。
Antique Shop
- これは本物の肖像画ですか?
- 保存状態はどうですか?
- 鑑定書はありますか?
- 値引きはできますか?
대화 시작하기
"美術館で一番印象に残った肖像画は何ですか?"
"もし自分の肖像画を描いてもらうなら、どんな背景がいいですか?"
"有名な歴史上の人物の肖像画で、好きなものはありますか?"
"肖像画と写真、どちらの方がその人の個性を表せると思いますか?"
"自分の家に肖像画を飾ってみたいと思いますか?"
일기 주제
今日、美術館で見た肖像画について詳しく書いてみましょう。
もしあなたが肖像画家だったら、誰をモデルに選びたいですか?その理由も書いてください。
『肖像権』について、SNS時代の今、私たちが気をつけるべきことは何でしょうか?
自分の肖像画を描いてもらった時のことを想像して、その時の気持ちを日記にしてください。
歴史の教科書にある肖像画の中で、一番記憶に残っているものとその理由を書いてください。
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문Technically yes in a formal or legal sense (e.g., 肖像写真), but in daily life, 'shashin' or 'pōtorēto' is much more common. Calling a selfie a 'shōzōga' sounds like a joke.
The counter is 'mai' (枚) for thin, flat objects. Example: 肖像画が二枚 (Two portraits).
It is common in museums and textbooks, but you won't hear it much in casual conversation unless discussing art or history.
Use 'jigazō' (自画像). It's a specific type of 肖像画.
You can add 'o' to some words, but 'o-shōzōga' is not common. Instead, use polite verbs like 'haiken suru' (to see).
It translates to 'portrait rights.' It is the legal right to not have your image used without permission.
Usually no. A statue of a person is called a 'shō' (像) or 'douzō' (bronze statue) or 'chōzō' (sculpture).
肖像画 is a specific, named person. 人物画 is just 'a person' (anonymous).
Yes, often in mystery or horror anime involving haunted mansions and old paintings.
No, it specifically refers to humans. For animals, use 'doubutsu no e'.
셀프 테스트 200 질문
Translate to Japanese: 'This is a portrait of my mother.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using 肖像画 and 美術館.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'I want to paint a portrait of you.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe a portrait you like in 2 sentences.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'The portrait is hanging on the wall.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a historical portrait.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'Portrait rights are important.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Explain the difference between 肖像画 and 写真 in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'He commissioned a famous artist to paint his portrait.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using 'shajitsuteki' (realistic) and 'shōzōga'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The museum has many old portraits.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Whose portrait is this?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence about a 'jigazō' being a type of 'shōzōga'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The brushwork of this portrait is delicate.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'I was moved by the portrait.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'A life-size portrait of the king.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe the background of a portrait in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Portraits are a record of history.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using 'shōzōga' and 'kanshō'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The portrait was stolen from the gallery.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
美術館で肖像画を見た時のことを話してください。
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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自分の肖像画を描いてもらいたいですか?理由も教えてください。
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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好きな肖像画について一分間説明してください。
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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肖像権についてどう思いますか?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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肖像画と写真の違いを説明してください。
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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歴史の教科書で印象に残っている肖像画はありますか?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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もし肖像画家になったら、誰を描きたいですか?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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肖像画の背景には何を書き込みますか?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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「肖像画のような美しさ」とはどんな美しさだと思いますか?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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肖像画を修復する仕事についてどう思いますか?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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有名な肖像画を一つ選んで、そのモデルについて話してください。
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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肖像画が飾ってある部屋のイメージを教えてください。
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당신의 답변:
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自画像と肖像画、どちらを描くのが難しいと思いますか?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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肖像画が動くという怪談を聞いたことがありますか?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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肖像画は、その人の真実の姿を写していると思いますか?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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肖像画の依頼主は、なぜ絵を描かせたのだと思いますか?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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現代の「肖像画」はSNSのプロフィール写真だと思いますか?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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肖像画を見て、その人の性格を想像したことがありますか?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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肖像画の額縁について、あなたの意見を聞かせてください。
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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子供に「肖像画って何?」と聞かれたらどう答えますか?
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
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Listen to the description: 'A formal painting of a person, often seen in museums.' What word is it?
Listen and identify: 'Jigazō is a type of this word.'
Listen to the sentence: 'Bijutsukan de shōzōga wo mimashita.' Where was the portrait?
Listen and answer: 'Who is the model for the portrait?' (Sono shōzōga no moderu wa dare desu ka?)
Listen to the legal context: 'Shōzōken no shingai.' What is being infringed?
Listen and identify the verb: 'Shōzōga wo kaku.'
Listen and answer: 'Where is the portrait hanging?' (Kabe ni shōzōga ga kakatte imasu.)
Listen and identify the subject: 'Napoleon no shōzōga.'
Listen to the quality: 'Migoto na shōzōga.' Is it good or bad?
Listen to the action: 'Shōzōga wo irai suru.' What is happening?
Listen and identify the era: 'Edo jidai no shōzōga.'
Listen to the location: 'Kyōkasho ni载っている肖像画.' Where is it?
Listen and identify the artist: 'Shōzōgaka.'
Listen to the condition: 'Hozon jōtai ga warui.' Is the portrait in good condition?
Listen to the detail: 'Sensai na fude-zukai.' What is delicate?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
肖像画 (shōzōga) is the formal term for a portrait. Use it when referring to artistic depictions of specific individuals in paintings or drawings. Example: '美術館でナポレオンの肖像画を見た' (I saw a portrait of Napoleon at the museum).
- A formal Japanese word for a portrait painting or drawing.
- Commonly used in art, history, and legal contexts (portrait rights).
- Distinguished from 'jigazō' (self-portrait) and 'shashin' (casual photo).
- Essential for discussing historical figures or visiting Japanese art museums.
The Kanji Logic
肖 (resemble) + 像 (image) + 画 (picture). It's a 'resemblance image picture.' Use this logic to remember the meaning.
Imperial Portraits
Portraits of the Japanese Emperor were historically called 'Go-shin-ei' and treated with extreme reverence.
Verb Pairing
Always pair with 'kaku' (to draw) or 'egaku' (to depict) for natural-sounding sentences.
Stroke Order
The kanji '像' has many strokes. Take your time with the 'elephant' part on the right.
관련 콘텐츠
history 관련 단어
古代
B1고대. 중세 이전의 시대를 가리키며, 인류 문명의 초기 단계를 의미함.
古代の
B1아주 먼 과거에 속하는; 고대의.
考古学
B1The study of human history and prehistory through the excavation of sites and the analysis of artifacts and other physical remains.
〜頃
A2특정 시간이나 시기의 '대략 그쯤'을 나타냅니다. 예를 들어 '3시쯤'은 '3時ごろ'라고 합니다.
その頃
A2그 무렵, 그 당시. 앞서 언급한 특정한 시기를 가리키는 말.
攻撃する
A2사람이나 사물을 물리적 또는 언어로 공격하는 것.
建設する
A2건물, 시설, 또는 조직 등을 새로 만들다.
お城
A2일본의 전통적인 성.
〜世紀
A2서기에서 100년을 단위로 하는 기간을 나타내는 접미사.
古典的
A2고대 그리스 로마 문학이나 예술의 특징을 나타내거나 이에 속하는 것. 더 나아가, 시대를 초월하는 가치와 예술성으로 높이 평가되는 확립된 전통적인 것을 의미합니다.