反省

• Reading: はんせい
• Romaji: hansei
• Kanji breakdown: 反 (han) — turn back, reverse; 省 (sei) — examine, reflect
• Pronunciation: /haɴ.seː/

Meaning

Reflection; self-examination; regret. Looking back on one's actions and considering what could be improved.

A noun that functions as a suru verb (反省する). Deeply embedded in Japanese culture — expressing 反省 is socially expected after mistakes or failures. Used in schools (反省文, written reflection), workplaces, and personal relationships. Not merely regret, but implies commitment to improvement. 反省会 (reflection meeting) is a common post-event debrief.

Examples

1. 失敗したことを深く反省している。 I'm deeply reflecting on my failure.
2. 試合の後にチームで反省会をした。 After the game, the team held a reflection meeting.
3. 自分の行動を反省して謝ることにした。 I reflected on my behavior and decided to apologize.

Usage Guide

Context: school, workplace, personal growth

Tone: serious

Origin & History

Compound of 反 (han, turn back) and 省 (sei, examine/reflect). Together, 'turning back to examine oneself' — the act of introspective self-evaluation.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal