感心

• Reading: かんしん
• Romaji: kanshin
• Kanji breakdown: 感 (kan) — feeling, emotion; 心 (shin) — heart, mind
• Pronunciation: /kaɴ.ɕiɴ/

Meaning

Admiration. Being impressed by someone's effort, skill, or behaviour.

A noun that also functions as a suru verb (感心する). Expresses genuine admiration and being impressed, often by hard work, dedication, or unexpected competence. Can carry a slightly condescending nuance when used by a superior about a subordinate. 感心する is commonly used as an expression of praise: 'I'm impressed.' Can also be used ironically or negatively as in 感心しない (not admirable, disapproving).

Examples

1. 毎日早起きして勉強する彼女に感心した。 I was impressed by her getting up early and studying every day.
2. あの子は小さいのに礼儀正しくて感心する。 I'm impressed that such a young child has such good manners.
3. そのやり方にはあまり感心しない。 I don't really approve of that approach.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, praise, evaluation

Tone: positive

Origin & History

Compound of 感 (kan, feeling/emotion) and 心 (shin, heart/mind). Together, 'a feeling that moves the heart' — being emotionally struck by something admirable.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal