Tatemae and Honne

Tatemae (sometimes translated as Front) is a face that japanese shows in public. They may have a specific role due to their social status or position in the specific group (such as corporation or company). They behave as they are expected to behave in the specific situation, regardless of their personal opinions about the matter. Core of tatemae is politeness to avoid confrontation. To the westerner, this may sound dishonest.

Honne (can be translated as True Sound) refers to real feelings and opinions. It is not something one is encouraged to show in public, especially during business dealings. It is something a Japanese shows only to his closest friends (or sometimes when very drunk).