Japanese meaning of 正々堂々
Reading:
せいせいどうどう (seisei doudou)
English Translation:
Fair and square
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Fair and square
態度や方法が正しく、堂々としていること。
Cultural Context:
Sportsmanship slogan; also used in debates and politics to frame honesty as a virtue.
スポーツマンシップの標語や、討論・政治の場で誠実さを示す枠組みとして使われる。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase used in formal contexts; often with “とした態度.”
Trap for English Speakers
May be mistaken as aggressive confrontation.
Example
Basic Example
彼は正々堂々と試合に臨んだ。
He faced the match fair and square.
Applied Example
「正々堂々、勝負だ！」と剣士は叫び、剣を抜いた。
Let's fight Fair and square! shouted the swordsman as he drew his blade.