内心

• Reading: ないしん
• Romaji: naishin
• Kanji breakdown: 内 (nai/uchi) — inside, inner; 心 (shin/kokoro) — heart, mind
• Pronunciation: /na.i.ɕiɴ/

Meaning

Inner thoughts; true feelings; inmost heart. What one really thinks but doesn't express.

A noun used adverbially or with の to describe what someone truly feels inside, as opposed to what they show outwardly. 内心では (naishin de wa) means 'deep down' or 'inwardly.' Frequently paired with contrast markers — 内心ほっとした (inwardly felt relieved) while showing a calm exterior. Common in narration, introspection, and describing hidden emotions.

Examples

1. 平気なふりをしていたが、内心は不安だった。 I pretended to be fine, but deep down I was anxious.
2. 内心ほっとしたが、顔には出さなかった。 I felt relieved inside, but kept it off my face.
3. 彼は内心うれしかったに違いない。 He must have been happy deep down.

Usage Guide

Context: narration, introspection, daily life

Tone: reflective

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 内 (nai, inner/inside) + 心 (shin, heart/mind). A straightforward compound meaning 'inner heart' — the private thoughts and feelings one keeps concealed from others.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal