良識

• Reading: りょうしき
• Romaji: ryoushiki
• Kanji breakdown: 良 (ryou) — good, virtuous; 識 (shiki) — knowledge, discernment
• Pronunciation: /ɾjoː.ɕi.ki/

Meaning

Good sense; common sense; sound judgement. The ability to think and act reasonably.

A noun referring to mature, reasonable thinking that most adults are expected to possess. Slightly more elevated than 常識 (common sense), implying moral discernment as well as practical wisdom. Often used in the phrase 良識ある (possessing good sense) to describe responsible, level-headed behaviour.

Examples

1. 良識ある大人ならそんなことはしない。 Any sensible adult wouldn't do something like that.
2. 社会の良識が問われる事件が続いている。 A series of incidents have put society's good sense to the test.
3. 彼女は良識を持って冷静に対処した。 She handled the situation calmly and with good judgment.

Usage Guide

Context: society, ethics, politics, media

Tone: serious

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 良 (ryou, good/virtuous) + 識 (shiki, knowledge/discernment). Literally 'good discernment,' conveying the idea of sound moral and practical judgement.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal