Difference Between the Terms Himitsu and Naisho in Japanese

Illustration of men hiding

The terms “himitsu” (秘密) and “naisho” (内緒) in Japanese often appear in various contexts, whether in everyday conversation, movies, manga, or anime. Both have meanings related to secrecy, but there are different nuances and usages between the two. Let’s take a deeper look at these two terms, including their meanings, usages, and the cultural contexts behind them.

Basic Meanings of Himitsu and Naisho

Himitsu (秘密): Himitsu literally means “secret.” This term is often used to refer to information or facts that you don’t want others to know. Himitsu is the most common and widely used word. Himitsu can refer to any type of secret, whether it’s private, group, or public. In many contexts, himitsu can describe something more serious or important.

Naisho (内緒): Naisho, on the other hand, also means “secret,” but is more often used in a lighter, more informal context. Naisho is used for spoken language and is a rather casual expression that is not used in public. Naisho is more often used to refer to a little secret or something that is being kept from someone else in a more informal context. This term can be used when someone asks to keep something a secret, such as a surprise or a plan that has not been announced. Naisho often conveys a friendly tone and is less heavy than himitsu.

Use in Daily Life

In everyday conversation, the use of himitsu and naisho can be adjusted to the context and relationship between individuals. For example, when talking to a close friend, someone might be more likely to use naisho to convey that they have something they want to keep to themselves. Example:

彼女が怒らないようにそれは内緒にしておいた。

“I kept it a secret, so he wouldn't get mad.”

It doesn't mean that the word himitsu can't be used. But if you use the word himitsu, the secret will feel too heavy for a small secret. Example:

夫に内緒でランチに出かけた

“I went to lunch without telling my husband.”

While in a more serious context, such as when talking about more sensitive information, the word himitsu is more appropriate to use. For example:

その事実は秘密にしておいた方がよい。

“It's better to keep that fact a secret.”

Thus, himitsu means a secret in the form of important information that is not shared with many people. Meanwhile, Naisho means a secret that is not shared only with certain people. So the word naisho cannot replace the word himitsu even though both mean secret.

Cultural Nuances

Illustration of a man in disguise

In Japanese culture, maintaining privacy and confidentiality is highly valued. The concept of “wa” (和), which relates to harmony and conformity in relationships between individuals, makes Japanese people tend to be cautious about sharing personal information. This is one reason why terms like himitsu and naisho are important.

Himitsu often involves deeper trust. When someone entrusts himitsu to another person, it means that they value the relationship and respect the trust given. Revealing himitsu to another person can be a sign of closeness, but it can also carry risks if the information is not kept safe.

Naisho, on the other hand, can be more casual. For example, in the context of planning a surprise party, it signifies that they want to keep the surprise intact without the added pressure of himitsu.

Conclusion

Both himitsu and naisho have an important place in Japanese language and culture. Both convey aspects of secrecy, but with different nuances and contexts. Himitsu is more often used in more serious and personal matters, while naisho has a lighter and friendlier connotation.

In this increasingly open world, the ability to maintain himitsu and naisho remains relevant. Keeping secrets or personal information is a form of respect for oneself and others. It creates space for trust and intimacy in human relationships.

Through a deeper understanding of these terms, we learn not only the Japanese language, but also the cultural values that accompany it. Respecting confidentiality is an integral part of social relationships, whether in formal or informal contexts. Therefore, both himitsu and naisho are two terms that are worth recognizing and understanding in our journey to learn the Japanese language and culture.

While both can be translated as “secret,” himitsu and naisho have different nuances in Japanese. Understanding these differences will help you use the right word according to the context. Hope this article was helpful!