相性

• Reading: あいしょう
• Romaji: aishou
• Kanji breakdown: 相 (sō/ai) — mutual, together; 性 (sei/shō) — nature, character
• Pronunciation: /a.i.ɕoː/

Meaning

Affinity; compatibility; chemistry between people or things.

Describes how well two people, things, or elements go together. Originally from fortune-telling and astrology, where compatibility was determined by birth signs. Now used broadly for interpersonal relationships, food pairings, and even software compatibility.

Examples

1. 彼とは相性がいいので、仕事がスムーズに進む。 He and I get along great, so work goes smoothly.
2. この料理とワインは相性が抜群だ。 This dish and wine are a perfect match.
3. 新しいソフトとパソコンの相性が悪くて困っている。 I'm having trouble because my new software isn't compatible with my computer.

Usage Guide

Context: relationships, food and drink, technology

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 相 (mutual) + 性 (nature/character). Originally used in divination to assess compatibility between people based on their birth elements.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal