甲斐甲斐しい

• Reading: かいがいしい
• Romaji: kaigaishii
• Kanji breakdown: 甲斐 (kai) — worth, effort, result; 甲斐 — repeated for intensification; しい — adjective suffix
• Pronunciation: /ka.i.ɡa.i.ɕi.i/

Meaning

Diligent and devoted; industrious in caring for others; assiduous. Describes someone who works earnestly and selflessly for another person's sake.

An i-adjective formed by reduplicating 甲斐 (worth, effect) with the しい suffix. Specifically evokes the image of someone doing everything within their power for another with sincere dedication, commonly in the context of caregiving, service, or loyal support. Has a slightly old-fashioned, literary warmth.

Examples

1. 母は病気の父を甲斐甲斐しく世話し続けた。 My mother continued to care for my ailing father with tireless devotion.
2. 新入社員が甲斐甲斐しく上司の荷物を運んでいる姿が印象的だった。 The sight of the new employee diligently carrying his superior's bags left a strong impression.
3. 彼女は甲斐甲斐しい性格で、困っている人を放っておけない。 She has such a devoted nature that she simply cannot leave anyone in need alone.

Usage Guide

Context: caregiving, dedication, character

Tone: warm

Origin & History

Reduplicated from 甲斐 (worth, effect) with しい creating an adjective meaning 'full of earnest effort for another.' The reduplication intensifies the sense of devoted industry, a formation pattern common in classical Japanese descriptors.

Cultural Context

Era: Traditional

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal