寛容

• Reading: かんよう
• Romaji: kanyou
• Kanji breakdown: 寛 (kan) — broad, generous; 容 (yō) — contain, accept, appearance
• Pronunciation: /ka.ɴ.joː/

Meaning

Tolerance; open-mindedness; forbearance. The quality of accepting differences without hostility.

A na-adjective and noun describing a broad-minded attitude that accepts diversity and forgives mistakes. Used in discussions of social values (寛容な社会 — a tolerant society), personal traits (寛容な人 — a tolerant person), and ethical topics. Slightly more abstract and philosophical than 寛大, which focuses on generous treatment of specific actions.

Examples

1. 異なる文化に対して寛容な姿勢が大切だ。 It's important to have a tolerant attitude toward different cultures.
2. 彼は他人の意見に寛容で尊敬されている。 He is tolerant of others' opinions and is respected for it.
3. 寛容さを失った社会は生きづらくなる。 A society that loses its tolerance becomes a difficult place to live.

Usage Guide

Context: social issues, philosophy, education, character description

Tone: thoughtful

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 寛 (kan, broad/generous) + 容 (yō, to contain/to accept). Literally 'broadly accepting,' describing a disposition that makes room for differences.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal