Proverb / Kotowaza
品行方正
Behaving in a morally upright and exemplary manner.
Conduct and behavior are correct and upright
Quick Answer
Behaving in a morally upright and exemplary manner.
- Literal Image
- Conduct and behavior are correct and upright
- How to Use It
- Used when evaluating or describing someone who follows moral rules and acts as a role model for others.
Meaning
Refers to a person whose daily conduct is proper and morally sound. 'Hinkou' relates to one's regular behavior, while 'housei' indicates being serious and upright. It is used to praise someone for their integrity and polite character.
Literal Image
Conduct and behavior are correct and upright
How to Use It
Used when evaluating or describing someone who follows moral rules and acts as a role model for others.
Tone
Formal and evaluative.
Examples
彼は品行方正な人物で、誰からも信頼されている。
He is a person of upright conduct and is trusted by everyone.
品行方正を絵に描いたような生徒会長だった。
The student council president was the very picture of moral integrity.
品行方正であることを求められる立場は、時に窮屈に感じることもある。
Being in a position where upright conduct is expected can sometimes feel restrictive.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
Uses formal kanji compounds typical of four-character idioms (yojijukugo).
品行
ひんこう / hinkou
conduct; behavior
方正
ほうせい / housei
upright; correct
Usage Profile
Usage note: Because it implies high moral standards, using it about oneself can sound overly boastful.
Misread Risk
The term specifically refers to moral conduct rather than general skill or intelligence.
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Source Note
Where did this entry get its data from? The reference links are listed below. To understand how to read this section, see Data Sources.