This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B1 adjective #3,000 most common 14 min read

まじめ

majime Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips まじめ in 30 Seconds

Explanation まじめ in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'majime' is one of the first personality adjectives you will learn. It is used in its simplest form to describe people you know. You will mostly use it in the pattern 'Person wa majime desu' (Person is serious/diligent). At this stage, you don't need to worry about the deep cultural nuances. Just think of it as the opposite of 'lazy' or 'playful.' You might use it to describe a classmate who always does their homework or a teacher who is very strict but fair. It's a 'safe' word because it is almost always positive. You will also learn to use it with the particle 'na' when it comes before a noun, like 'majime-na hito' (a serious person). This is a great word for basic self-introductions or describing your family members. For example, 'Watashi no chichi wa majime desu' (My father is serious/diligent). It helps you build basic sentences about the people around you and start expressing opinions about character. Even at this early stage, try to remember that it's a 'na-adjective,' which is a fundamental grammar point for beginners. You will also see it written in hiragana (まじめ) most of the time, although the kanji (真面目) is common in signs and books. Focus on the sound 'ma-ji-me' and associate it with someone who works hard and follows the rules. This will give you a solid foundation for more complex uses later on.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'majime' in more specific contexts, particularly school and work. You will move beyond simple descriptions and start using the adverbial form 'majime-ni' to describe how someone performs an action. For example, 'majime-ni benkyou shimasu' (I study seriously/diligently). You will also start to understand the negative and past forms: 'majime ja arimasen' (is not serious) and 'majime deshita' (was serious). At this level, you can use 'majime' to give simple reasons for your opinions. For instance, 'Tanaka-san wa majime na node, suki desu' (I like Tanaka-san because he is serious/diligent). You might also encounter it in short stories or simple news articles describing a 'majime-na seinan' (an earnest young man). You are starting to see that 'majime' is a very desirable trait in Japanese society. It’s not just about being 'not funny'; it’s about being someone who can be trusted with a task. You might also hear the phrase 'majime-na hanashi' (a serious talk) for the first time, helping you understand how to transition between different tones in a conversation. This level is about expanding the 'where' and 'how' of using the word, moving from simple labels to describing behaviors and intentions in everyday life.

At the B1 level, you should have a firm grasp of 'majime' as a key cultural concept, not just a vocabulary word. You will start to notice the difference between 'majime' and its synonyms like 'seijitsu' (sincere) or 'kinben' (diligent). You'll understand that 'majime' is the most versatile and commonly used of these, covering both character and work ethic. You should be comfortable using it in various grammatical structures, such as 'majime-sou' (appears serious) or 'majime-sugiru' (too serious). At this stage, you can use 'majime' to discuss more complex topics like work-life balance or societal expectations in Japan. You might discuss how 'majime' people are viewed in your own country compared to Japan. You'll also learn the nuance that being 'too majime' can sometimes be a burden, leading to stress or lack of flexibility. This is the level where you start to 'feel' the word's weight in social harmony. When you hear someone described as 'majime,' you understand it implies they are punctual, follow through on promises, and respect social boundaries. You can also use it to set the stage for a conversation: 'Majime na hanashi wo shite mo ii desu ka?' (May I talk about something serious?). This shows a higher level of social awareness and control over the 'air' of the conversation. You are no longer just using a dictionary definition; you are using the word to navigate Japanese social norms.

At the B2 level, your use of 'majime' becomes much more nuanced and context-aware. You can distinguish between the different 'types' of seriousness and use the word to provide detailed character analyses. You might use 'majime' to describe the 'Shokunin' (craftsman) spirit or the 'Salaryman' ethos in a presentation or essay. You understand the historical and etymological roots (真面目 - 'true face') and can explain why this concept is so vital to Japanese identity. At this level, you are also aware of the potential negative connotations of being 'kuso-majime' (stupidly serious/too serious to a fault), a slangier term that highlights the downside of over-conformity. You can engage in debates about whether the Japanese 'majime' culture is changing with the younger generation. Your grammar will be flawless, using 'majime' in complex sentences with conditional clauses or passive forms, such as 'Majime ni hatarakanai to, shubatsu wo ukeru' (If you don't work diligently, you will be punished). You will also be able to use it in professional settings, such as writing a letter of recommendation or a performance review, where choosing 'majime' over 'kinben' or 'seijitsu' shows a specific understanding of the person's role and reputation. You are now using the word as a tool for sophisticated social commentary and professional evaluation.

At the C1 level, you are exploring the philosophical and ethical dimensions of 'majime.' You can discuss its relationship with other core Japanese values like 'Giri' (obligation) and 'Ninjo' (human emotion). You might analyze literary works where the protagonist's 'majime-sa' is their greatest strength or their tragic flaw. You are comfortable with the word in all its registers, from extremely formal business discourse to casual, ironic slang. You can use 'majime' to discuss the sociology of Japanese education or the psychology of the Japanese workforce. You understand how the concept of 'majime' has evolved through the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa eras to the present day. When you use the word, you are aware of the 'unspoken' parts—the expectations it places on the person being described and the person doing the describing. You can use it in high-level rhetorical contexts, such as 'Majime-sa koso ga, Nihon no hatten no kiso de atta' (Seriousness/earnestness was the very foundation of Japan's development). You can also detect subtle irony or sarcasm when the word is used in modern media to critique social pressure. At this level, 'majime' is no longer a word you 'use'; it is a concept you 'inhabit' and 'analyze,' demonstrating a near-native understanding of the Japanese psyche and its linguistic expressions.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 'majime' is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. You can use it with extreme precision in academic writing, legal contexts, or high-level diplomacy. You understand the most obscure idioms and historical references associated with the term. You can discuss the etymological shift of the kanji 真面目 and how its meaning has been shaped by Buddhist and Confucian thought. In creative writing, you can use 'majime' to evoke a specific atmosphere or character depth that goes beyond simple description. You can navigate the most delicate social situations where 'majime' might be used to deflect, praise, or subtly criticize, depending on the tone and context. You are also aware of regional variations or specific group 'dialects' where the word might take on a unique flavor. You can critique translations of Japanese literature, pointing out where 'serious' or 'diligent' fails to capture the true essence of 'majime.' Your understanding is holistic, encompassing the word's history, its social function, its psychological impact, and its linguistic versatility. You can lecture on the 'majime' culture of Japan to an audience of native speakers and provide insights that they themselves might not have consciously considered. At this level, 'majime' is a thread in the complex tapestry of your Japanese fluency, woven in with perfect timing and cultural resonance.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

まじめ in 30 Seconds

A na-adjective meaning serious, diligent, and honest, used to praise reliable character.
Central to Japanese culture, representing sincerity and the fulfillment of one's duties.
Used as 'majime-na' for people and 'majime-ni' as an adverb for actions.
Highly positive in professional and social contexts, though 'too serious' can be a critique.

The Japanese word まじめ (Majime) is a cornerstone of Japanese social values and personality description. While often translated simply as 'serious,' 'diligent,' or 'honest,' its cultural weight is significantly heavier than its English counterparts. To understand majime, one must look at the Japanese societal emphasis on sincerity, reliability, and the fulfillment of one's role. It describes a person who approaches life, work, and relationships with a sense of duty and a lack of frivolity. When a Japanese person calls you majime, it is almost always a high compliment, suggesting that you are trustworthy and dependable. Unlike the English word 'serious,' which can sometimes carry a negative connotation of being 'no fun' or 'humorless,' majime focuses on the positive attribute of being earnest. It implies that a person does not cut corners, follows the rules not out of fear but out of respect for the system, and treats others with genuine sincerity. In a professional context, a majime employee is one who arrives on time, completes tasks thoroughly, and can be counted on during a crisis. In a school setting, a majime student is one who listens attentively and completes all homework without complaint. However, there is a subtle flip side; someone who is 'too' majime might be viewed as inflexible or lacking 'asobi' (play/flexibility). This nuance is vital for B1 learners to grasp as they move toward more natural communication.

Core Concept: The embodiment of earnestness, reliability, and sincerity in one's actions and character.

彼は非常にまじめな社員で、皆から信頼されています。
(He is a very serious/diligent employee and is trusted by everyone.)

The term is a na-adjective, meaning it often appears as まじめな (majime-na) before a noun or まじめに (majime-ni) as an adverb. Its etymology, written in kanji as 真面目, literally translates to 'true face' or 'true eyes.' This suggests a state of being where one looks at reality directly, without deception or distraction. When using this word, you are commenting on the 'internal' quality of a person that manifests in 'external' reliability. It is frequently used in job interviews, performance reviews, and introductions. For example, when introducing a friend to a potential employer, saying 'Kare wa majime desu' (He is diligent) is one of the strongest endorsements you can provide. It transcends mere skill; it speaks to the person's soul and their commitment to the collective good. In romantic contexts, a 'majime na tsukiai' refers to a serious relationship intended for marriage, contrasting with casual dating. This versatility makes it one of the most useful adjectives in the Japanese lexicon.

Social Function: Validates a person's adherence to social contracts and moral integrity.

もっとまじめに勉強しなさい！
(Study more seriously/diligently!)

Culturally, the concept of majime is tied to the 'Shokunin' (craftsman) spirit. A craftsman who is majime will spend hours perfecting a detail that no one might ever see, simply because it is the 'right' way to do it. This internal compass of doing one's best regardless of external rewards is the essence of being majime. In modern Japan, this often translates to the 'salaryman' culture, where dedication to the company is paramount. However, the younger generation sometimes uses the word with a hint of irony. Calling someone 'majime-kun' (Mr. Serious) can be a playful jab at someone who follows the rules too strictly or cannot relax in social settings. Despite this, the core value remains highly respected. Understanding the balance—when to be majime and when to show asobi—is a key part of mastering Japanese social dynamics. As you progress in your studies, try to observe how people described as majime behave in different scenarios. You will notice a consistent pattern of punctuality, thoroughness, and a genuine desire to be helpful without seeking the spotlight.

Antonym Context: The opposite is fumajime (insincere/frivolous) or darashinai (sloppy/undisciplined).

彼は見た目は怖そうだが、中身はとてもまじめだ。
(He looks scary, but on the inside, he is very earnest.)

Using まじめ (Majime) correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a na-adjective. This means that when it modifies a noun directly, you must attach な (na). For example, 'a serious student' becomes まじめな学生 (majime-na gakusei). When it is used at the end of a sentence to describe a subject, it follows the standard copula patterns: まじめです (majime desu - polite) or まじめだ (majime da - casual). The adverbial form is created by adding に (ni), resulting in まじめに (majime-ni), which translates to 'seriously' or 'diligently' in the context of an action. For instance, 'to work seriously' is まじめに働く (majime-ni hataraku). This versatility allows you to describe both a person's inherent character and the specific manner in which they perform an action. It is important to note that majime cannot be used to describe the severity of a situation like a 'serious accident.' In those cases, words like juudai or shinkoku are required. Understanding this boundary is essential for B1 learners who are starting to refine their vocabulary choice based on context.

Noun Modification: Use [Adjective] + な + [Noun]. Example: まじめな人 (A serious/honest person).

田中さんはまじめな性格なので、嘘をつきません。
(Because Tanaka has a serious/honest personality, he doesn't tell lies.)

In conversation, majime is frequently used in the negative form to describe someone who isn't taking things seriously. The negative form is まじめじゃない (majime ja nai - casual) or まじめではありません (majime dewa arimasen - polite). You might hear a teacher say to a student, 'Majime ni yarinasai!' (Do it seriously!), which is a common command to focus and apply effort. Another common usage is the phrase まじめな話 (majime-na hanashi), which means 'on a serious note' or 'all jokes aside.' This is used to signal a shift in conversation from lighthearted banter to a topic of importance. For example, 'Majime na hanashi, kongo no koto dakedo...' (On a serious note, about the future...). This transition is culturally important in Japan, where maintaining the 'wa' (harmony) often involves a lot of small talk before getting to the 'honne' (true intention or serious matter).

Adverbial Use: Use [Adjective] + に + [Verb]. Example: まじめに考える (To think seriously/deeply).

冗談はやめて、まじめに答えてください。
(Stop joking and please answer seriously.)

Furthermore, majime can be intensified with adverbs like totemo (very), sugoku (extremely), or wari-to (relatively). A 'wari-to majime' person is someone who is generally dependable but has a relaxed side. Interestingly, majime is also used to describe the quality of work itself. A 'majime na shigoto' is a job well done, reflecting the care and attention to detail of the worker. In the context of self-improvement, one might say 'Majime ni torikumu' (to engage with something earnestly), which is often used when starting a new hobby or a study program. This implies a commitment to the process, not just the result. As you write, remember that majime often implies a lack of ego; the person is serious because they care about the task and the people affected by it, not necessarily because they are stern or unfriendly. This distinction is what makes the word so central to Japanese interpersonal relations.

Common Collocation: まじめに働く (To work hard/earnestly). This is a standard way to describe a good work ethic.

彼はまじめすぎて、時々心配になります。
(He is too serious/diligent, so I sometimes get worried about him.)

In the daily life of Japan, まじめ (Majime) is ubiquitous. You will hear it in schools, offices, homes, and even in television dramas. In the workplace, it is perhaps the most common way to describe the ideal colleague. During the 'Shuukatsu' (job hunting) season, students often highlight their majime-sa (seriousness/earnestness) in their entry sheets and interviews. Employers look for this quality because it guarantees that the recruit will adhere to company culture and put in the necessary effort to learn. If you are working in Japan, you might hear your boss say, 'Kimi wa majime da ne' (You are diligent, aren't you?). This is a sign of trust. However, if they say it with a slight sigh, they might be implying that you are being too literal or rigid with instructions, missing the 'kuuki wo yomu' (reading the air) aspect of the situation. This duality is a fascinating part of Japanese workplace communication.

Workplace Context: Used to praise reliability, punctuality, and a strong work ethic.

あの子はまじめだから、安心して仕事を任せられる。
(That kid is serious/diligent, so I can leave the work to them without worrying.)

In educational settings, teachers use majime to describe students who are 'good' in the traditional sense—those who don't disrupt class and always do their homework. Parents often use it when comparing children or expressing their hopes for their own child's future. You might hear a mother say, 'Majime ni shinasai!' to a child who is playing with their food or not paying attention to instructions. It is a fundamental part of the 'shitsuke' (upbringing) process in Japan. In anime and manga, the 'majime' character is often the class representative (iincho) who wears glasses, follows every rule to the letter, and often serves as a foil to a more rebellious or lazy protagonist. These characters embody the archetypal majime person—someone who values order and duty above all else, often providing a comedic or grounding element to the story.

Social Relationships: Describes a person's sincerity in friendships and romantic commitments.

結婚するなら、やっぱりまじめな人がいいよね。
(If I'm going to get married, I definitely want someone who is serious/steady.)

In the world of dating and marriage, majime is a top-tier desirable trait. On Japanese dating apps or in 'Omiai' (arranged marriage) profiles, being majime is often listed as a key personality feature. It signals that the person is not a 'charai' (frivolous/playboy) type and is looking for a stable, honest connection. You might hear friends discussing a potential partner, saying, 'Kare, sugoku majime sou da ne' (He seems very serious/earnest, doesn't he?). This is an endorsement of their character. Even in casual settings, if someone tells a joke that goes too far, another might say, 'Chotto, majime ni kiite yo!' (Hey, listen to me seriously/properly!). This usage highlights the word's role in regulating social interactions and ensuring that important moments are given the respect they deserve. Whether in the boardroom or the living room, majime is the glue that maintains the standards of Japanese behavior.

Daily Interaction: Used as a conversational bridge to transition into serious topics.

今の話、まじめに言ってるの？
(Are you saying that seriously? / Do you really mean that?)

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using まじめ (Majime) is over-extending its meaning to match the English word 'serious' in all contexts. In English, we use 'serious' for a wide variety of things: a serious illness, a serious accident, a serious problem, or a serious face. However, majime is almost exclusively reserved for human character, attitude, and behavior. If you say 'Majime na jiko' (a serious accident), it will sound very strange to a Japanese speaker; they would use juudai na jiko or hidoi jiko instead. Similarly, a 'serious illness' is omoi byouki or omoitai. Understanding that majime is a 'personality' word rather than a 'severity' word is the first step to avoiding common pitfalls at the B1 level.

Mistake 1: Severity vs. Character: Using majime for accidents or illnesses. Correct: Juudai (serious/important) or Shinkoku (grave).

❌ この事故はまじめです。
✅ この事故は深刻です。(This accident is serious/grave.)

Another common error is the confusion between majime and shinkoku (grave/serious) or omoi (heavy/serious). While majime describes an earnest person, shinkoku describes a situation that is worrying or critical. If someone looks worried, you might ask, 'Doushite sonna ni shinkoku na kao wo shite iru no?' (Why do you have such a grave look on your face?). If you used majime here, it would mean 'Why do you have such an earnest/honest face?', which changes the meaning entirely. Additionally, learners often forget that majime is a na-adjective. They might say 'majime hito' instead of 'majime-na hito.' This small grammatical slip-up is common but easily fixed with practice. Always remember the na when connecting it to a person or a noun.

Mistake 2: Missing the 'Na': Saying 'majime gakusei' instead of 'majime-na gakusei'.

❌ 彼はまじめ学生です。
✅ 彼はまじめな学生です。(He is a serious student.)

Lastly, be careful with the nuance of 'seriousness' as 'lack of humor.' In English, 'You're so serious!' can be a criticism meaning 'lighten up.' In Japanese, if you say 'Majime desu ne!' to someone who is being a bit stiff, they might take it as a compliment on their work ethic rather than a suggestion to be more fun. If you actually want to tell someone they are too stiff or formal, words like katai (hard/stiff) or katakurushii (stiff/formal) are more appropriate. On the other hand, if you want to say someone is 'honest' in the sense of 'not lying,' shojiki is often a more direct choice than majime, though majime does imply honesty. Learning these subtle boundaries will help you sound more like a native speaker and avoid unintentional social awkwardness.

Mistake 3: Confusing with 'Honest': While majime implies honesty, shojiki is the specific word for 'truth-telling'. Use majime for overall character and shojiki for specific instances of truth.

❌ まじめに言って、それは嫌いです。
✅ 正直に言って、それは嫌いです。(To be honest, I hate that.)

While まじめ (Majime) is a fantastic all-purpose word, Japanese offers several synonyms that allow for more precise descriptions depending on the situation. Understanding these alternatives will elevate your B1 Japanese to a more professional and nuanced level. The most common related terms are seijitsu, kinben, nesshin, and shojiki. Each of these carries a slightly different 'flavor' of seriousness or honesty. By choosing the right one, you can convey exactly what you mean about a person's character or work style.

誠実 (Seijitsu): This means 'sincere' or 'faithful.' While majime focuses on diligence and following rules, seijitsu focuses on the heart and moral integrity. A seijitsu person is someone who keeps their promises and is genuinely kind. It is often used in romantic or deep friendship contexts.

彼は誠実な人なので、裏切ることはありません。
(He is a sincere person, so he will never betray you.)

Another important word is kinben (勤勉), which specifically means 'diligent' or 'industrious' in a work or study context. It is more formal than majime and is often used in academic or professional writing to describe a person's habit of working hard. While majime is a personality trait, kinben is more about the action of working. Then there is nesshin (熱心), which means 'enthusiastic' or 'eager.' If someone is nesshin, they aren't just doing their duty (like a majime person); they are doing it with passion. For example, a 'nesshin na fan' is a devoted fan. Using majime there would sound like the fan is just following the rules of being a fan, which doesn't capture the passion.

正直 (Shojiki): Means 'honest' or 'frank.' This is the word to use when you want to emphasize truth-telling. While a majime person is usually shojiki, you use shojiki when specifically talking about not lying.

正直に言うと、その計画には反対です。
(To be honest, I am against that plan.)

For describing someone who is 'reliable' or 'solid,' shikkari shite iru is a common phrase. It suggests that the person is competent and has their life together. A child who is shikkari shite iru is very mature for their age. While majime describes their attitude, shikkari describes their capability. Lastly, kichinto shite iru describes someone who is neat, orderly, and does things 'properly.' A majime person usually does things kichinto. By mixing these words, you can create a vivid picture of someone's character. For example, 'Kare wa majime de, shojiki na hito desu' (He is an earnest and honest person). This combination reinforces the positive qualities and provides a complete endorsement of their character.

Summary Table: まじめ (Earnest/Serious) | 誠実 (Sincere/Faithful) | 勤勉 (Hard-working) | 熱心 (Enthusiastic) | 正直 (Honest/Frank).

彼女は熱心に日本語を勉強しています。
(She is studying Japanese enthusiastically.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In the Edo period, it was sometimes used to describe the appearance of a person who was acting in a play, referring to their 'real face' once the makeup was removed.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /mɑː.dʒi.meɪ/

US /mɑ.dʒi.meɪ/

Flat pitch (Heiban), though some dialects may have a slight drop after the first syllable.

Rhymes With

Hajime (beginning) Yajime (arrow) Kajime (seaweed) Najime (familiar) Oshime (diaper) Musume (daughter) Suzume (sparrow) Tsume (nail)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'me' as 'mee' (it should be 'meh').
Stressing the second syllable like 'ma-JI-me'.
Making the 'j' sound too sharp or like 'z'.
Lengthening the final 'e' into a diphthong.
Pronouncing 'ma' like the 'a' in 'cat'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Hiragana is easy; kanji (真面目) is common but has many strokes.

Writing 4/5

Writing '真面目' requires attention to the radicals.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to pronounce and very versatile.

Listening 2/5

Frequently used and easy to recognize.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

人 (Hito) 仕事 (Shigoto) 勉強 (Benkyou) 話 (Hanashi) 嘘 (Uso)

Learn Next

誠実 (Seijitsu) 勤勉 (Kinben) 熱心 (Nesshin) 性格 (Seikaku) 信頼 (Shinrai)

Advanced

倫理 (Rinri) 道徳 (Doutoku) 規範 (Kihan) 同調圧力 (Douchou-atsuryoku) 職人気質 (Shokunin-kishitsu)

Grammar to Know

Na-Adjective Modification

まじめな人 (Majime-na hito)

Adverbial formation with 'ni'

まじめに働く (Majime-ni hataraku)

Noun formation with 'sa'

彼のまじめさ (His seriousness)

Negative form 'ja nai'

まじめじゃない (Not serious)

Appearance with 'sou'

まじめそう (Looks serious)

Examples by Level

田中さんはまじめです。

Mr. Tanaka is serious/diligent.

Simple [Subject] wa [Adjective] desu structure.

まじめな学生ですね。

A serious student, isn't it?

Na-adjective modifying a noun.

まじめに勉強します。

I will study seriously.

Adverbial form 'majime-ni' + verb.

彼はあまりまじめじゃないです。

He is not very serious.

Negative form of a na-adjective.

まじめな人が好きです。

I like serious/earnest people.

Noun modification with 'suki desu'.

お父さんはまじめでした。

My father was serious/diligent.

Past tense 'deshita'.

まじめに聞いてください。

Please listen seriously/properly.

Adverbial use in a polite command.

まじめな顔ですね。

You have a serious face.

Modifying the noun 'kao' (face).

もっとまじめに仕事をしてください。

Please do your work more seriously.

Use of 'motto' (more) with adverbial 'majime-ni'.

彼はまじめな性格で、遅刻しません。

He has a serious personality and is never late.

Using 'majime' to describe 'seikaku' (personality).

まじめな話、お金がありません。

Serious talk, I have no money.

The set phrase 'majime-na hanashi' to transition topics.

彼女はまじめそうに見えます。

She looks like she is serious/earnest.

Using '-sou' (looks like) with a na-adjective.

まじめにやれば、できますよ。

If you do it seriously, you can do it.

Conditional 'ba' form with 'majime-ni'.

あの人はまじめすぎて、面白くないです。

That person is too serious, so they are not interesting.

Using '-sugiru' (too much) with 'majime'.

まじめな態度が大切です。

A serious attitude is important.

Modifying 'taido' (attitude).

まじめに答えてもいいですか？

Is it okay if I answer seriously?

Asking permission with '-te mo ii desu ka'.

日本人はまじめだと言われています。

It is said that Japanese people are serious/diligent.

Passive form 'iwarete iru' (it is said).

まじめに将来のことを考えなければなりません。

I must think seriously about the future.

Using 'nakereba narimasen' (must) with 'majime-ni'.

彼はまじめなだけじゃなくて、親切です。

He is not just serious; he is also kind.

Using 'dake ja nakute' (not just).

まじめに付き合っている彼女がいます。

I have a girlfriend I am dating seriously.

Using 'majime-ni' to describe the nature of a relationship.

彼は見た目はチャラいけど、実はまじめだ。

He looks frivolous, but actually, he's serious.

Contrast using 'kedo' and 'jitsu wa'.

まじめにやってきたからこそ、成功したんです。

It's because I've been doing it seriously that I succeeded.

Emphatic 'kara koso' (precisely because).

まじめな話、このままではまずいです。

Seriously, if things stay like this, it'll be bad.

Using 'majime-na hanashi' to introduce a warning.

彼はまじめすぎて、損をすることが多い。

He's too serious, so he often ends up at a disadvantage.

Using 'son wo suru' (to lose out/be at a disadvantage).

彼のまじめさが、チームの信頼を勝ち取った。

His seriousness/earnestness won the trust of the team.

Noun form 'majime-sa' (seriousness).

不まじめな態度は、社会人として失格だ。

An insincere attitude is a disqualification as a working adult.

Antonym 'fumajime' and the term 'shakaijin'.

まじめに取り組む姿勢が、何よりも評価される。

An attitude of engaging earnestly is valued above all else.

Relative clause 'majime ni torikumu' modifying 'shisei'.

冗談をまじめに受け取りすぎて、空気が悪くなった。

He took the joke too seriously, and the mood turned bad.

Using 'uketo-ru' (to receive/take) with 'majime-ni'.

まじめな社員ほど、ストレスを溜め込みやすい。

The more diligent an employee is, the easier they build up stress.

The 'hodo' (the more... the more) structure.

彼は根がまじめだから、嘘がつけないんだ。

He is serious at his core, so he can't tell lies.

Idiomatic 'ne ga majime' (serious by nature/at the root).

まじめ一筋で生きてきた彼の言葉には重みがある。

There is weight in the words of a man who has lived a life of pure diligence.

Suffix 'hitosuji' (solely/devotedly).

まじめに議論を重ねた結果、この結論に至った。

As a result of repeated serious discussions, we reached this conclusion.

Using 'majime-ni' with 'giron' (discussion).

日本社会における「まじめ」の定義は、時代とともに変容している。

The definition of 'majime' in Japanese society is transforming with the times.

Academic structure using 'ni okeru' and 'henyou'.

彼のまじめすぎる性格が、皮肉にも彼を孤独に追いやった。

Ironically, his overly serious personality drove him into loneliness.

Using 'hiniku ni mo' (ironically) and 'oiyaru' (to drive away).

まじめに生きることが、必ずしも幸福に直結するわけではない。

Living earnestly does not necessarily lead directly to happiness.

Negative structure 'wake dewa nai' (doesn't mean that).

その作家は、人間の不まじめさの中にこそ真実があると説いた。

The author preached that truth exists precisely within human insincerity.

Using 'koso' for emphasis and 'toku' (to preach/explain).

まじめな議論を避けて通ることは、今の政治には許されない。

Avoiding serious discussion is not permitted in current politics.

Using 'sakete tooru' (to avoid/bypass).

彼女のまじめな仕事ぶりは、業界内でも高く評価されている。

Her diligent way of working is highly regarded even within the industry.

Noun 'shigotoburi' (way of working).

まじめに事態を収拾しようとする姿勢が見られない。

No attitude of trying to earnestly settle the situation can be seen.

Using 'shuushu' (settle/collect) and 'mira-renai'.

彼はまじめを絵に描いたような人物だ。

He is the very picture of seriousness/earnestness.

Idiom 'e ni kaita you na' (the very picture of).

「まじめ」という言葉の裏には、個人の主体性を抑圧する同調圧力も潜んでいる。

Behind the word 'majime' lurks a peer pressure that suppresses individual autonomy.

Sociological terms like 'shutaisei' and 'douchou atsuryoku'.

真面目の語源が「真の面目」にあることを考えれば、その重みが理解できる。

If you consider that the origin of 'majime' lies in 'true face/honor,' you can understand its weight.

Etymological analysis and 'ba' conditional.

彼は、まじめさと不まじめさの危うい均衡の上に立っている。

He stands upon a precarious balance between seriousness and insincerity.

Using 'ayaui kinkou' (precarious balance).

まじめに不まじめをやる、という彼の逆説的な生き方は若者に支持された。

His paradoxical way of living—'doing insincerity seriously'—was supported by the youth.

Paradoxical structure 'majime ni fumajime'.

この論文は、日本近代文学における「まじめ」の系譜を辿っている。

This thesis traces the genealogy of 'majime' in modern Japanese literature.

Academic term 'keifu' (genealogy).

まじめさが美徳とされる社会において、逸脱者は往々にして疎外される。

In a society where seriousness is considered a virtue, deviants are often alienated.

Using 'bitoku' (virtue) and 'itsudatsu-sha' (deviant).

彼のまじめな献身が、ついに崩壊寸前の組織を繋ぎ止めた。

His earnest devotion finally held together the organization that was on the brink of collapse.

Using 'kenshin' (devotion) and 'houkai sunzen' (brink of collapse).

まじめな話、我々は今、文明の岐路に立たされている。

On a serious note, we are now standing at a crossroads of civilization.

High-level rhetorical usage of 'majime-na hanashi'.

Common Collocations

まじめな性格

まじめに働く

まじめな話

まじめに取り組む

まじめな顔

まじめ一筋

まじめに考える

まじめすぎる

根がまじめ

まじめな付き合い

Common Phrases

まじめにやって！

— Do it seriously! Often said by parents or teachers to children.

遊んでないで、まじめにやって！

まじめか！

— Are you serious?! A slangy retort to someone being overly earnest or literal.

そんな細かいこと気にするの？まじめか！

まじめな話だけど

— This is a serious matter, but... Used to introduce a grave or important topic.

まじめな話だけど、会社を辞めようと思ってる。

まじめが一番

— Being serious/honest is the best. A common Japanese proverb-like sentiment.

色々あるけど、やっぱりまじめが一番だよ。

まじめに聞いて

— Listen to me seriously. Used when someone is distracted or joking.

茶化さないで、まじめに聞いて。

まじめな人柄

— An earnest/serious character. A formal way to describe someone's nature.

彼のまじめな人柄が好かれている。

まじめ一筋に

— With single-minded diligence. Describes a life or career of consistent hard work.

まじめ一筋に三十年働いた。

まじめ腐る

— To be look/act extremely serious. Often used with a slightly negative or mocking tone.

何をまじめ腐っているんだ。

まじめ半分

— Half-serious. Doing something with only partial earnestness.

まじめ半分、遊び半分で始めた。

まじめに答える

— To answer seriously. Used to request a non-joking response.

私の質問にまじめに答えてください。

Often Confused With

まじめ vs 深刻 (Shinkoku)

Use 'shinkoku' for grave situations (like a problem); use 'majime' for people.

まじめ vs 重大 (Juudai)

Use 'juudai' for important/serious events; 'majime' is for character.

まじめ vs 正直 (Shojiki)

'Shojiki' is specifically 'honest/truthful'; 'majime' is broader 'earnest/diligent'.

Idioms & Expressions

"真面目を絵に描いたよう"

— The very picture of seriousness. Used for someone who perfectly embodies the trait.

彼は真面目を絵に描いたような人だ。

Neutral

"根が真面目"

— Serious at the core. Implies that even if they act out, their true nature is earnest.

不器用だけど、彼は根が真面目だ。

Neutral

"真面目一本"

— Purely serious; single-mindedly diligent.

真面目一本でやってきた職人だ。

Neutral

"糞真面目 (Kuso-majime)"

— Stupidly serious; serious to a fault (vulgar/slang).

あいつは糞真面目すぎて話が通じない。

Slang/Informal

"真面目半分に"

— Half-seriously; with mixed intentions.

真面目半分に冗談を言った。

Neutral

"真面目な顔をする"

— To put on a serious face; to look grave.

そんなに真面目な顔をしないでよ。

Neutral

"真面目に受ける"

— To take something seriously.

彼の冗談を真面目に受けてしまった。

Neutral

"真面目に構える"

— To take a serious stance or attitude.

あまり真面目に構えすぎない方がいい。

Neutral

"真面目が服を着て歩いている"

— Seriousness walking in clothes. (A personification of the trait).

あの先生は、真面目が服を着て歩いているようだ。

Informal/Humorous

"真面目腐った顔"

— A face looking excessively serious (often used mockingly).

真面目腐った顔で何を考えているんだ。

Informal

Easily Confused

まじめ vs 深刻 (Shinkoku)

Both translate to 'serious'.

Shinkoku is for the severity of a problem or situation. Majime is for the character of a person.

深刻な問題 (A serious problem) vs まじめな人 (A serious person).

まじめ vs 熱心 (Nesshin)

Both imply working hard.

Nesshin implies passion and enthusiasm. Majime implies duty and reliability.

熱心なファン (Enthusiastic fan) vs まじめな学生 (Serious student).

まじめ vs 勤勉 (Kinben)

Both mean 'diligent'.

Kinben is more formal and specific to work/study habits. Majime is a general personality trait.

勤勉な国民 (A diligent nation) vs まじめな彼 (Serious him).

まじめ vs 誠実 (Seijitsu)

Both mean 'honest/earnest'.

Seijitsu focuses on sincerity and heart. Majime focuses on behavior and adherence to rules.

誠実な謝罪 (A sincere apology) vs まじめな態度 (A serious attitude).

まじめ vs 重い (Omoi)

Can mean 'serious' in English.

Omoi is for 'heavy' things, including serious illnesses. Majime is never used for illness.

重い病気 (A serious illness) vs まじめな話 (A serious talk).

Sentence Patterns

[Person] はまじめです。

田中さんはまじめです。

まじめな [Noun] ですね。

まじめな学生ですね。

まじめに [Verb]。

まじめに勉強します。

まじめな話、[Sentence]。

まじめな話、お金がありません。

まじめすぎて [Result]。

まじめすぎて疲れました。

根がまじめだから [Reason]。

根がまじめだから嘘がつけない。

まじめに取り組む [Noun]。

まじめに取り組む姿勢。

まじめを絵に描いたような [Noun]。

まじめを絵に描いたような人物。

Word Family

Nouns

真面目さ (Majime-sa - Seriousness/Earnestness)

不真面目 (Fumajime - Lack of seriousness)

Verbs

真面目ぶる (Majime-buru - To act serious/pretend to be serious)

Adjectives

真面目な (Majime-na - Serious/Diligent)

生真面目な (Kimajime-na - Overly serious)

誠実 (Seijitsu)

勤勉 (Kinben)

熱心 (Nesshin)

律儀 (Richigi)

堅実 (Kenjitsu)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily life, work, and education.

Common Mistakes

Using 'majime' for a serious accident. → 深刻な事故 (Shinkoku na jiko)
Majime is for personality/attitude, not for the gravity of events.
Saying 'majime hito'. → まじめな人 (Majime-na hito)
It is a na-adjective, so it needs 'na' before a noun.
Using 'majime' to mean 'to be honest'. → 正直に言うと (Shojiki ni iu to)
Majime implies honesty but isn't the phrase for 'frankly speaking'.
Using 'majime' for a serious illness. → 重い病気 (Omoi byouki)
Illnesses are 'heavy' (omoi), not 'diligent' (majime).
Thinking 'majime' is always an insult (boring). → It's usually a compliment.
In Japan, being serious is a highly valued trait, not a sign of being no fun.

Tips

Na-Adjective Rule

Don't forget the 'na'! It's 'majime-na hito', never 'majime hito'. This is a common B1 error.

Business Essential

Being called 'majime' in a Japanese office is a huge win. It means you are considered a reliable part of the team.

Balance is Key

If you want to say someone is 'too serious', use 'majime-sugiru'. It adds a touch of concern or mild criticism.

Transitioning

Use 'majime-na hanashi' to switch from joking around to a serious topic. It's a very natural conversational bridge.

Archetypes

In anime, the character with glasses is usually the 'majime' one. Use this to help remember the word's vibe.

Adverbial Use

Use 'majime-ni' with verbs like 'hataraku' (work), 'benkyou suru' (study), and 'kangaeru' (think).

The Root of Trust

In Japan, 'majime' is the foundation of 'shinrai' (trust). Without being 'majime', you cannot be truly trusted.

Synonym Choice

Use 'nesshin' for passion, 'kinben' for work habits, and 'majime' for overall character.

Flat Pitch

Keep the pitch flat. Don't stress the middle syllable. Ma-ji-me should flow smoothly.

Dating

If someone says they want a 'majime-na tsukiai', they mean they are looking for a long-term, serious relationship.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Ma' (Mother) and 'Ji' (Jesus) and 'Me'. A Mother and Jesus looking at Me—that's a very 'serious' and 'earnest' situation!

Visual Association

Imagine a student with large, round glasses (the 'me' of majime) looking intensely at a book with a 'true' (ma) 'face' (ji).

Word Web

Trust Work Honesty Rules Sincerity Diligence Reliability Focus

Challenge

Try to identify three people in your life who are 'majime' and write one sentence for each explaining why.

Word Origin

The word is written with the kanji 真 (ma - true) and 面目 (menboku - face/honor). Originally, 'menboku' referred to one's face or public reputation.

Original meaning: A 'true face' or 'real look,' implying a state where one is not wearing a mask or pretending.

Japonic (Yamato Kotoba origin for the reading, Sinitic for the kanji).

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use it mockingly unless you are very close with the person, as it can sound like you are calling them boring.

In English, 'serious' can be negative (boring). In Japanese, 'majime' is almost always positive unless used with 'sugiru' (too much).

The 'Iincho' (Class Rep) character in almost every high school anime. The film 'The Great Passage' (Fune wo编mu) features a protagonist who is the embodiment of 'majime'. Japanese proverbs often emphasize that 'majime' leads to success.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Workplace Evaluation

まじめに働きます
まじめな社員
仕事をまじめにこなす
まじめさが評価される

School Life

まじめな学生
まじめに勉強する
授業をまじめに聞く
まじめに宿題をやる

Relationships

まじめな付き合い
まじめな人柄
根がまじめ
まじめに考える

Daily Conversation

まじめな話
まじめに答えて
まじめにやって
まじめか！

Self-Improvement

まじめに取り組む
まじめに練習する
自分にまじめになる
まじめさを忘れない

Conversation Starters

"あなたは、自分のことをまじめな性格だと思いますか？ (Do you think you have a serious personality?)"

"まじめな人と、面白い人、どちらと一緒にいたいですか？ (Would you rather be with a serious person or a funny person?)"

"日本人はまじめだと言われますが、どう思いますか？ (It's said Japanese people are serious; what do you think?)"

"あなたの国では、まじめな人はどのように評価されますか？ (In your country, how are serious people evaluated?)"

"「まじめすぎる」と言われたことはありますか？ (Have you ever been told you are 'too serious'?)"

Journal Prompts

今日、あなたが「まじめ」に取り組んだことは何ですか？具体的に書いてください。 (What did you work on 'seriously' today? Write specifically.)

「まじめ」であることのメリットとデメリットについて考えてください。 (Think about the merits and demerits of being 'majime'.)

あなたの周りで一番まじめな人は誰ですか？その人のどんなところがまじめですか？ (Who is the most 'majime' person around you? What part of them is 'majime'?)

もし明日から「不まじめ」に生きるとしたら、何をしますか？ (If you were to live 'insincerely' from tomorrow, what would you do?)

仕事や勉強で「まじめ」でいるために、どのような工夫をしていますか？ (What steps do you take to stay 'majime' in work or study?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No. For a serious accident, use 'juudai na jiko' or 'hidoi jiko'. 'Majime' only describes people's character or actions.

Usually, yes. It means you are reliable. However, 'majime-sugiru' (too serious) can be a subtle way to say someone is boring or inflexible.

'Majime' is about being diligent and following rules. 'Seijitsu' is about having a sincere heart and being faithful to others.

Use 'majime-ni'. For example, 'Majime-ni kiite!' (Listen seriously!).

Only if the movie has a serious tone/theme. You might say 'majime-na naiyou' (serious content), but 'shinkoku' or 'omoi' might be better depending on the gravity.

Yes, 'majime ka!' is a common slangy retort used when someone is being too serious or literal.

It is a vulgar term meaning 'stupidly serious'. It's used to mock someone who follows rules to an extreme degree.

It is written as '真面目'. The first kanji means 'true' and the second two mean 'face/honor'.

Yes, it implies honesty because a serious person doesn't lie. But for 'to be honest', use 'shojiki'.

Yes, very often! Teachers and parents use it to praise kids who study hard and behave well.