寸志

• Reading: すんし
• Romaji: sunshi
• Kanji breakdown: 寸 (sun) — a tiny amount, small unit; 志 (shi/kokorozashi) — intention, will, feeling
• Pronunciation: /sɯɴ.ɕi/

Meaning

Small token of appreciation; modest gift; gratuity. A modest offering given as a gesture of gratitude, used as a humble expression.

A humble (謙譲語) expression used when giving a tip, small gift, or monetary token of thanks. The giver uses 寸志 to downplay the value of their offering. Often written on envelope flaps or gift tags in formal settings. It is improper to describe someone else's gift as 寸志 — only one's own.

Examples

1. 御礼のしるしとして、ほんの寸志ですがお受け取りください。 As a token of my appreciation, please accept this small offering.
2. 封筒に寸志と書いて、お世話になった方に渡した。 I wrote 寸志 on the envelope and handed it to the person who had helped me.
3. 寸志では足りませんが、日頃の感謝の気持ちです。 This is but a trifle, though it comes with my heartfelt gratitude for all you have done.

Usage Guide

Context: gift-giving, business etiquette, social customs

Tone: humble

Origin & History

Compound of 寸 (a small unit of length, hence 'a tiny amount') and 志 (intention, will, thought). Together they convey the sense of 'a small expression of one's feeling,' emphasising the inadequacy of the gift relative to the favour received.

Cultural Context

Era: Traditional–Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal