建前

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: The fixed compound 建前 (たてまえ) denotes the outward or public stance.
• Basic usage: 建前 is the public principle, position, or rationale presented outwardly.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Public stance and 本音
  • It contrasts with 本音, one's candid inner view, but it is not automatically a lie.