In 15 Seconds
- To clarify one's stance or position through behavior.
- Used in business, politics, and serious personal situations.
- Implies intentionality and taking responsibility for one's views.
- Often paired with adjectives like 'resolute' or 'positive'.
Meaning
When you use this phrase, you aren't just 'having' an attitude; you are actively communicating your stance or position through your behavior. It’s the moment you stop being vague and let everyone know exactly where you stand on an issue, often with a sense of resolve or accountability.
Key Examples
3 of 10In a corporate meeting
社長は新しいプロジェクトに対して、賛成の態度を示した。
The president showed a supportive attitude toward the new project.
Discussing a friend's behavior
彼はいつも曖昧な態度を示すので、本心がわからない。
He always shows a vague attitude, so I don't know his true feelings.
A news report on diplomacy
政府は他国の介入に対し、強い反対の態度を示した。
The government showed a strong attitude of opposition to the other country's intervention.
Cultural Background
In Japanese society, 'Hon'ne' (true feelings) and 'Tatemae' (public face) are crucial concepts. `態度を示す` is the bridge where 'Hon'ne' becomes 'Tatemae'—it is the formal act of bringing one's internal stance into the public sphere. Historically, in a culture that values harmony (Wa) and avoids direct conflict, the act of clearly showing one's attitude is a significant social move that signals a person is taking responsibility for their position. It exists because 'reading between the lines' isn't always enough for legal, business, or formal social contracts.
Use it for Accountability
In Japan, using this phrase implies you are willing to take responsibility for your choice. It's a power move in meetings.
Don't be a 'Vague' Stance-taker
Saying `曖昧な態度を示す` is often a polite way of saying someone is being annoying or unreliable. Avoid it for yourself!
In 15 Seconds
- To clarify one's stance or position through behavior.
- Used in business, politics, and serious personal situations.
- Implies intentionality and taking responsibility for one's views.
- Often paired with adjectives like 'resolute' or 'positive'.
What It Means
Ever been in a group chat where everyone is 'read-receipting' but nobody is answering? When someone finally drops a 'No, I’m not going,' they are finally ready to 態度を示す. This phrase is all about making your internal position visible to the outside world. It’s like a poker player finally pushing their chips into the center of the table. You aren't just thinking about your next move; you are showing the room what that move is. In Japanese culture, where 'reading the air' is a national sport, 態度を示す is the moment the air becomes crystal clear. It carries a vibe of 'I’ve made up my mind, and I want you to know it.'
How To Use It
Grammatically, this is a standard Noun + Object Marker + Verb combo. You take the noun 態度 (taido), which means attitude or stance, add を (o), and finish with 示す (shimesu), which means to show or indicate. You’ll often see it paired with adverbs to describe *how* someone is showing their stance. For example, 毅然とした態度を示す (kizen toshita taido o shimesu) means showing a firm, resolute attitude. It’s a very active phrase. You don't just 'have' this attitude by accident; you 'show' it with intent. Think of it as a conscious broadcast of your feelings. It's much more formal than just saying you 'said' something. It implies your actions are doing the talking too.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine a YouTuber who gets caught in a controversy. If they just ignore it, fans will say they haven't shown their stance yet. But when they post a 10-minute apology video (with the classic grey hoodie, of course), they are trying to 態度を示す. Or think about a job interview on Zoom. If you look bored and keep checking your phone, you are showing a 'disrespectful attitude.' On the flip side, if you come prepared with notes and questions, you 意欲的な態度を示す (show a motivated attitude). Even in dating, if you’ve been 'friends' for a year and suddenly start bringing flowers and being extra helpful, you are showing your 'romantic attitude'—or at least trying to get out of the friend zone! Just don't wait too long, or the only attitude you'll show is 'regret.'
When To Use It
This phrase is your go-to for situations that require clarity. Use it in business negotiations when you need to let the other side know you won't budge on the price. Use it in politics when a leader needs to condemn or support a new law. It’s also great for social issues, like when a brand shows its stance on environmental protection by changing its packaging. It’s a 'big' phrase, so save it for when the stakes actually matter. If you're just choosing between vanilla or chocolate ice cream, saying you're 'showing your attitude' might make the shop staff think you're a bit overly dramatic. Use it when your reputation or a major decision is on the line.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using this for small, everyday preferences. If your friend asks if you like their new shoes, don't say 'I will now show my attitude.' That sounds like you’re about to deliver a formal speech about their sneakers. Also, be careful in very casual settings. If you’re just hanging out with friends, ハッキリ言う (say it clearly) or 態度に出す (let it show in your attitude) might feel more natural. 示す is a bit 'stiff' and academic, so using it while eating pizza in your pajamas might feel like wearing a tuxedo to a backyard BBQ. It’s about the gravity of the stance, not just the fact that you have an opinion.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using 見る (to see) when you mean you want to show your own stance. 態度を見る means you are watching *someone else* to see how they react. If you want to show *your* stance, you must use 示す.
Don't use 教える (to teach/tell). You don't 'tell' an attitude like you tell a secret; you 'demonstrate' it through your presence and actions.
While 出す is okay for casual 'showing,' in a professional report or news article, 示す is the mandatory choice. Using 出す in a business meeting is like bringing a plastic spoon to a five-star dinner—it works, but it looks a bit cheap.
Similar Expressions
If 態度を示す feels too heavy, try 姿勢を見せる (shisei o miseru). This literally means 'to show one's posture' but is used to mean showing your approach or dedication to something. It’s very common in sports and business. Another one is 意思表示をする (ishihyoji o suru), which means 'to express one's intention.' This is much more focused on the words you say. If 態度を示す is the whole movie, 意思表示 is just the script. Lastly, there's 身を固める (mi o katameru), which is more about 'settling down' or 'committing,' though it's often specifically used for getting married. Use these when you want to tweak the flavor of your 'showing.'
Common Variations
One of the most frequent pairings is 反対の態度を示す (show an attitude of opposition). You’ll see this in news headlines about protests or trade wars. There’s also あやふやな態度を示す (show a vague attitude), which is exactly what you don't want your doctor or your pilot to do. If someone is being incredibly brave, people might say they 毅然とした態度を示した (showed a resolute attitude). In a school setting, teachers might tell students to 前向きな態度を示す (show a positive/forward-looking attitude). Basically, 態度を示す is the canvas, and you can paint it with any adjective you like to describe the vibe of the person.
Memory Trick
Think of 態度 (taido) as 'Tie-Do.' Before you 'Do' anything important, you have to 'Tie' your laces. Showing your 'Tie-Do' means you’re laced up, ready to go, and showing the world you mean business. If you don't show your 'Tie-Do,' you're just standing there with loose strings, and everyone knows you're not ready to commit. Also, 示す (shimesu) sounds a bit like 'she missed.' If you don't 'show' your attitude, you 'miss' the chance to be understood! So, 'Tie-Do' and don't 'she-miss' your moment to be clear.
Quick FAQ
Is 態度を示す always positive? Not necessarily. You can show a 'hostile' attitude (敵対的な態度を示す). It just means you are being clear about your hostility. Can I use it for myself? Yes, but it sounds a bit objective. It’s like saying 'I will now demonstrate my position.' Is it used in romantic novels? All the time! Especially when a character finally stops hiding their love. Is it okay for social media? Yes, especially for 'statements' regarding current events. It makes you sound like you’ve actually thought about the issue rather than just hitting 'like.'
Usage Notes
This is a formal collocation. Use `示す` instead of `出す` in writing or professional speech. Avoid using it for trivial choices, as it implies a certain level of gravity or public accountability.
Use it for Accountability
In Japan, using this phrase implies you are willing to take responsibility for your choice. It's a power move in meetings.
Don't be a 'Vague' Stance-taker
Saying `曖昧な態度を示す` is often a polite way of saying someone is being annoying or unreliable. Avoid it for yourself!
Reading the Air vs. Showing the Air
Normally, Japanese people 'read the air' (Ky o yomu). `態度を示す` is the opposite—you are 'creating' the air by being clear.
Verb Nuance
`示す` is much more intentional than `見せる`. Use it when you want to sound like you have a plan.
Examples
10社長は新しいプロジェクトに対して、賛成の態度を示した。
The president showed a supportive attitude toward the new project.
Here it indicates an official approval through behavior and tone.
彼はいつも曖昧な態度を示すので、本心がわからない。
He always shows a vague attitude, so I don't know his true feelings.
Uses 'vague' to describe a lack of clear stance.
政府は他国の介入に対し、強い反対の態度を示した。
The government showed a strong attitude of opposition to the other country's intervention.
Very formal and common in political journalism.
環境問題について、私たちも明確な態度を示すべきだ。
We should also show a clear stance on environmental issues.
Modern context of social activism on social media.
面接では、謙虚な態度を示すことが大切です。
It is important to show a humble attitude during an interview.
Advice on non-verbal communication in a professional setting.
✗ 彼は私に好きの態度を見た。 → ✓ 彼は私に好意的な態度を示した。
✗ He saw a 'like' attitude to me. → ✓ He showed a favorable/friendly attitude toward me.
Learners often confuse 'showing' with 'seeing' or use nouns incorrectly.
エサが遅れると、猫は明らかに不満な態度を示す。
When the food is late, the cat clearly shows a dissatisfied attitude.
Personifying a pet using formal language for comedic effect.
このインフルエンサー、やっと自分の態度を示したね。
This influencer finally showed their stance, didn't they?
Casual commentary on a public figure's statement.
息子は勉強に対して、拒絶の態度を示している。
My son is showing an attitude of rejection toward studying.
Describes a child's stubborn behavior.
✗ 先生に正しい態度を教えてください。 → ✓ 先生に対して、敬意を示す態度をとるべきだ。
✗ Please teach the teacher a correct attitude. → ✓ You should take an attitude that shows respect toward the teacher.
Learners might try to 'teach' an attitude when they mean to 'demonstrate' it.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct particle and verb form.
The standard collocation is `態度を示す` using the object marker `を`.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
You 'show' (`示す`) your own attitude; you don't 'see' (`見る`) it in yourself in this context.
Translate this sentence into Japanese using the phrase provided.
This uses the common formal variation `毅然とした態度を示す`.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum of 'Showing a Stance'
Used with friends, often focused on emotion.
顔に出る (kao ni deru - shows on one's face)
Standard everyday usage for clarity.
態度に出す (taido ni dasu)
Business, news, and official statements.
態度を示す (taido o shimesu)
Specific legal declarations of intent.
意思表示をする (ishihyoji o suru)
When to '態度を示す'
Job Interview
Show motivation
Politics
Vote or protest
Dating
Declare feelings
Negotiation
Firm price stance
Social Media
Public statement
を示す vs. を出す vs. を見せる
Common Adjectives for Stances
Positive
- • 前向きな
- • 協力的な
- • 積極的な
Negative
- • 否定的な
- • 反抗的な
- • 冷淡な
Neutral/Weak
- • 曖昧な
- • 慎重な
- • 静観の
Practice Bank
3 exercises彼は会議で賛成の態度___ ___。
The standard collocation is `態度を示す` using the object marker `を`.
Find and fix the mistake:
彼女は新しいルールについて、反対な態度を見た。
You 'show' (`示す`) your own attitude; you don't 'see' (`見る`) it in yourself in this context.
We must show a resolute attitude toward injustice.
Hints: Injustice: 不当なこと (futo na koto), Resolute: 毅然とした (kizen toshita)
This uses the common formal variation `毅然とした態度を示す`.
🎉 Score: /3
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
19 questionsYes, if you use it while eating ramen, it might sound like you are a character in a historical drama. It is better to use ハッキリ言う (say it clearly) or let your actions speak naturally unless you are having a very serious 'where is this relationship going' talk.
Not exactly. If you want to say someone has a generally bad attitude, you should say 態度が悪い. 態度を示す is about a specific stance or reaction to a situation, not a permanent personality trait or general grumpiness.
示す (shimesu) is more about 'indicating' or 'pointing to' a specific meaning or decision, often in a formal way. 見せる (miseru) is simply 'to show' and can be more visual or casual. In business reports, 示す is almost always preferred for stances.
You would say 態度を変えた (taido o kaeta). If he changed it to show a new stance, you could say 新しい態度を示した, but the verb for change itself is different. 示す is strictly for the act of demonstrating or indicating that stance.
Absolutely! It is very common for influencers or companies to say they want to 態度を示す regarding a social issue. It sounds more professional and thoughtful than just saying they 'posted a comment' or 'liked a photo.'
Yes, especially regarding a player's dedication. If a player works hard despite being injured, a commentator might say they プロとしての態度を示している (showing an attitude of a professional). It highlights their mindset and resolve through their actions.
No, that's the beauty of the phrase. You can 態度を示す through silence, by leaving a room, or by working harder. It is about the visible manifestation of your stance, which may or may not include actual words or a spoken declaration.
Yes, you can use it with your boss, especially during performance reviews or when discussing project directions. In a professional setting, 態度を示す suggests you are being clear and decisive, which is often seen as a sign of leadership or reliability.
The opposite would be 態度を保留する (taido o horyu suru), which means to 'put one's attitude on hold' or remain undecided. You could also use 曖昧にする (keep it vague) if you want to describe someone avoiding taking a clear stance.
Metaphorically, yes. If a dog refuses to move because it doesn't like the rain, you could say it's 'showing an attitude of refusal.' It’s a bit of personification, but it’s common in casual storytelling or when joking about pets.
Yes, it is often used in social sciences or political science to describe the positions of different groups or nations. It is a precise way to describe how an entity reacts to a stimulus or a change in the environment.
Yes, you can say 謝罪の態度を示す (show an attitude of apology). This means not just saying 'sorry' but acting in a way that shows you are truly sorry, such as bowing deeply or taking steps to fix the mistake you made.
This is a very common set phrase. 毅然とした (kizen toshita) means resolute or firm. So, it means showing a stance that is not easily shaken by others. It is often used for heroes in movies or leaders during a crisis.
It is very similar to 'taking a stand' or 'making one's position clear.' However, it emphasizes the 'showing' part more than the 'standing' part. It's about the signal you send to others about where you are currently standing.
Yes, you can say 市民団体は反対の態度を示した (the citizens' group showed an attitude of opposition). It works for individuals, groups, or even entire nations. It's a very versatile phrase for describing any entity with a collective will.
It is generally considered B1 or intermediate. While the words themselves are simple, using it naturally requires an understanding of when a formal stance is appropriate versus when a casual expression would be better for the situation.
Not necessarily. You can 態度を示す for a single moment or a single issue. It just means that for this specific point in time, your position is known. However, once you show it, people will expect you to stick to it!
Yes, 態度 is the noun that functions as the direct object of the verb 示す. You can modify it with adjectives or nouns + の to specify exactly what kind of attitude or stance you are showing to the world.
No, for medical symptoms, you would use 症状が出る (symptoms appear) or 兆候を示す (show signs). 態度 is specifically for psychological or social stances and behavior, not for biological or physical conditions of the body.
Related Phrases
意思表示をする
formal versionTo express one's intention
This is a more legalistic or formal way to describe making your will known to others.
姿勢を見せる
synonymTo show one's approach/posture
Often used in business to show one's dedication or willingness to work hard on a task.
態度を保留する
antonymTo withhold one's stance
This is the direct opposite, meaning you are purposely not making your position clear yet.
態度に出す
informal versionTo let it show in one's attitude
A more casual way to say your feelings are leaking out into your behavior.
身を固める
related topicTo settle down/commit
While more specific to marriage, it involves showing a final, committed stance in life.
