感銘

• Reading: かんめい
• Romaji: kanmei
• Kanji breakdown: 感 (kan) — feeling, impression; 銘 (mei) — inscription, engraving
• Pronunciation: /kam.me.ː/

Meaning

Deep impression; being deeply moved. A feeling that is etched into the heart by something profoundly admirable or beautiful.

A noun most often used in the pattern 感銘を受ける (to be deeply impressed) or 感銘を与える (to make a deep impression on someone). Unlike simple 感動 (being moved), 感銘 carries a nuance of lasting, engraved admiration that changes one's outlook or inspires one to act.

Examples

1. 彼女の演説に深く感銘を受けた。 I was deeply impressed by her speech.
2. 師の生き様に感銘を受け、自分も見習いたいと思った。 Inspired by my mentor's way of life, I wanted to follow his example.
3. その映画は観客に強い感銘を与えた。 That movie left a profound impression on the audience.

Usage Guide

Context: formal feedback, literature, public speaking

Tone: respectful

Origin & History

From 感 (kan) meaning 'to feel' and 銘 (mei) meaning 'inscription' or 'to engrave.' The image is of a feeling so strong it is carved permanently into the heart.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal