地位

• Reading: ちい
• Romaji: chii
• Kanji breakdown: 地 (chi) — ground, position; 位 (i) — rank, position
• Pronunciation: /tɕi.i/

Meaning

Social position; status; standing within a group or society.

A noun specifically referring to rank or standing in a social hierarchy. More formal than 立場 and focuses on social rank rather than perspective. Often paired with が高い (high status) or を得る (to obtain status). Common in discussions about careers and society.

Examples

1. 彼は会社で高い地位にいる。 He holds a high position at the company.
2. 社会的な地位を気にしすぎないほうがいい。 You shouldn't worry too much about social status.
3. 女性の地位向上が進んでいる。 Progress is being made in improving the status of women.

Usage Guide

Context: career, sociology, politics

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 地 (ground, position) and 位 (rank, position). Both kanji emphasize placement and rank, forming a word about where one stands in the social order.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal