本音と建前を使い分けるのが日本社会の特徴だと言われる。
It is often said that Japanese society is marked by the distinction between true feelings and public stance.
この会社は建前では残業禁止だが、実際はそうではない。
Officially this company prohibits overtime, but in reality that isn't the case.
彼の謝罪は建前に過ぎず、反省しているようには見えない。
His apology is just for show; he doesn't seem to regret anything.