長所

• Reading: ちょうしょ
• Romaji: chosho
• Kanji breakdown: 長 (cho/naga) — long, superior; 所 (sho/tokoro) — place, aspect
• Pronunciation: /tɕoː.ɕo/

Meaning

Strong point; advantage; merit. A quality or ability in which someone or something particularly excels.

A noun commonly paired with its antonym 短所 (shortcoming) in balanced evaluations of people, systems, or plans. Frequently appears in job interviews, performance reviews, and self-reflection exercises. Less formal and more personal than 優位性 (competitive advantage).

Examples

1. 自分の長所を活かせる職場を探している。 I am looking for a workplace where I can make the most of my strengths.
2. 面接では長所と短所を明確に伝えることが重要だ。 In an interview it is important to communicate your strengths and weaknesses clearly.
3. チームの長所を最大限に引き出すのがリーダーの役目だ。 It is the leader's role to draw out the team's strengths to the fullest.

Usage Guide

Context: job interviews, education, self-assessment

Tone: positive

Origin & History

Sino-Japanese compound of 長 (long, superior) and 所 (place, aspect). Literally 'the place where one is long' — i.e., where one excels.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal