賢い

• Reading: かしこい
• Romaji: kashikoi
• Kanji breakdown: 賢 (ken/kashiko) — wise, clever
• Pronunciation: /ka.ɕi.ko.i/

Meaning

Wise; clever; smart. Describes intelligence, particularly practical or street-smart wisdom.

An i-adjective that implies practical intelligence and good judgement rather than mere book knowledge. Often used to praise children (賢い子), describe shrewd decisions (賢い選択), or compliment animals. The adverb form 賢く means 'wisely' or 'cleverly.'

Examples

1. あの子はとても賢くて成績もいい。 That kid is really smart and gets great grades too.
2. 賢い消費者はセール前に値段を比較する。 A savvy shopper compares prices before a sale.
3. このイルカは本当に賢い動物だと思う。 I think dolphins are truly intelligent animals.

Usage Guide

Context: praise, intelligence, animals

Tone: appreciative

Origin & History

From classical adjective 賢し (kashikoshi). The kanji 賢 combines 臣 (servant), 又 (hand), and 貝 (shell/money), suggesting a person wise enough to manage wealth and serve well.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal