心配り

• Reading: こころくばり
• Romaji: kokorokubari
• Kanji breakdown: 心 (kokoro) — heart, mind; 配 (kubari) — distribute, arrange
• Pronunciation: /ko.ko.ɾo.kɯ.ba.ɾi/

Meaning

Exerting care; attention; consideration; thoughtfulness towards others.

A noun (also used as する verb) describing the act of paying careful attention to others' needs and feelings. More deliberate and thoughtful than 気配り (ki kubari), which is quicker, practical attentiveness. 心配り implies deeper emotional consideration and warmth. Often praised as a Japanese cultural value in hospitality and interpersonal relationships.

Examples

1. 旅館のスタッフの心配りにとても感動した。 I was deeply moved by the thoughtfulness of the inn's staff.
2. 彼女はいつも周りへの心配りを忘れない人だ。 She is someone who never fails to be considerate of those around her.
3. 細やかな心配りができるのは素晴らしいことだ。 Being able to show such attentive care for others is a wonderful quality.

Usage Guide

Context: hospitality, relationships, praise

Tone: warm

Origin & History

Compound of 心 (kokoro, heart/mind) + 配り (kubari, distribution/arrangement, from 配る). Literally distributing one's heart — directing thoughtful attention to others.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal