再燃

• Reading: さいねん
• Romaji: sainen
• Kanji breakdown: 再 (sai) — again, re-; 燃 (nen) — burn, ignite
• Pronunciation: /sa.i.ne.ɴ/

Meaning

Recurrence; revival; flare-up. Describes the resurgence of something that had previously subsided.

A verbal noun used with する (再燃する) to mean 'to flare up again' or 'to reignite.' Commonly applied to conflicts, disputes, controversies, or dormant feelings that suddenly resurface. It carries a sense of unwelcome or unexpected return.

Examples

1. 和平交渉が決裂し、地域紛争が再燃した。 Peace negotiations broke down, and the regional conflict flared up again.
2. 長年忘れていた二人の間の感情が、再会をきっかけに再燃した。 Feelings between the two that had been forgotten for years were rekindled by their reunion.
3. 差別問題が再燃したことで、社会的議論が一気に活発化した。 The resurgence of discrimination issues sparked a surge in social debate.

Usage Guide

Context: journalism, politics, relationships

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 再 (sai, again) and 燃 (nen, burn/ignite). Originally described fires reigniting after appearing extinguished; the meaning extended metaphorically to conflicts, passions, and controversies.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated