手前味噌 (temaemiso): Word for Boasting Oneself in a Humble Way

Pronunciation

Definition

手前味噌 (てまえみそ, temaemiso) indicates the act of praising or boasting about oneself, and is usually used as “手前味噌だけど” or more politely “手前味噌{ですが/になりますが}”, that means “It may sound a little boastful, but …”. People use this expression when they want to boast about something but don’t want to sound cocky, but rather humble and polite.

Note that since 手前味噌 is a highly advanced word even for native Japanese speakers, some people probably don’t know this word. 

Word Origin and Structure

Literally, 手前味噌 indicates “home-made miso”, where miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning. It is a compound word that consists of “手前てまえ” meaning “this side” and “味噌みそ” meaning “miso”. In the old days, people were often proud of how good and unique their home-made miso is, and that is why this word has the current meaning.

Ex1
手前味噌になりますが、 拙著せっちょが100万部まんぶ売うれました。
手前味噌になりますが (I’m afraid it may sound boastful, but) my book has sold a million copies.

(note)
拙 in 拙著 is a prefix often used to “lower” yourself ( put yourself in a lower position) and respect others, as in “拙者せっしゃ” meaning “I”. You might be familiar with “拙者せっしゃ” (sessha), as it is often used by a samurai  or ninja to refer to himself/herself.

Ex2
手前味噌だけど、おれ結構けっこう料理りょうりうまいよ
手前味噌だけど (It may sound boastful, but) I’m very good at cooking.

Synonyms: 自慢じまん (bragging)
Synonyms in English: bragging, self-praise
Related words and phrases: 手前てまえ (this side, here),  味噌みそ (miso)

See also

ふつつか者 (futsutsukamono): Lovely Japanese Word to Humble Yourself