情熱

• Reading: じょうねつ
• Romaji: jounetsu
• Kanji breakdown: 情 (jō) — emotion, feeling; 熱 (netsu) — heat, fever, enthusiasm
• Pronunciation: /dʑoː.ne.tsɯ/

Meaning

Passion; enthusiasm; zeal. An intense emotional drive directed towards a goal or pursuit.

A noun describing burning enthusiasm or passionate dedication to something. Stronger and more intense than 熱意 (netsui), 情熱 implies an almost fiery commitment. Commonly used for creative pursuits, love, and professional dedication. The famous TV programme 情熱大陸 has made this word widely recognized.

Examples

1. 彼女は音楽に対する情熱がすごい。 Her passion for music is incredible.
2. 情熱を持って仕事に取り組むことが大切だ。 It's important to approach your work with passion.
3. あの監督の映画には情熱が感じられる。 You can feel the passion in that director's films.

Usage Guide

Context: work, creative arts, relationships

Tone: positive

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 情 (jō, emotion/feeling) + 熱 (netsu, heat/fever). Literally 'heat of emotion' — a burning emotional intensity.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal