思春期

• Reading: ししゅんき
• Romaji: shishunki
• Kanji breakdown: 思 (shi) — think, feel; 春 (shun) — spring; 期 (ki) — period, time
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.ɕɯɴ.ki/

Meaning

Puberty; adolescence. The developmental period between childhood and adulthood.

A noun referring to the physical and psychological transition period of adolescence, typically between ages 10 and 18. Frequently used in parenting, education, and health contexts. Common expressions include 思春期の子ども (adolescent child) and 思春期を迎える (to reach puberty). The word carries both biological and emotional connotations.

Examples

1. 思春期の子どもは親との衝突が増えることが多い。 Adolescent kids often clash with their parents more frequently.
2. 息子が思春期を迎えて急に口数が減った。 My son hit puberty and suddenly stopped talking as much.
3. 思春期は心と体が大きく変化する時期だ。 Adolescence is a time of major changes in both body and mind.

Usage Guide

Context: parenting, education, health

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 思春 (shishun, thinking of spring — metaphor for youthful stirrings) + 期 (ki, period). 'Spring' here symbolises the blossoming of youth and new emotions, a poetic way to describe the onset of adolescence.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal