信頼

• Reading: しんらい
• Romaji: shinrai
• Kanji breakdown: 信 (shin) — to believe, trust; 頼 (rai) — to rely on, depend
• Pronunciation: /ɕiɴ.ɾa.i/

Meaning

Trust; reliance; confidence. Depending on someone with assurance.

A suru-verb (信頼する) emphasizing reliance and dependability more than 信用. Takes a direct object with を. Often used for deeper, longer-term trust in people, institutions, or relationships. Common in professional and interpersonal contexts.

Examples

1. 部下から信頼される上司になりたい。 I want to become a boss who is trusted by my subordinates.
2. お互いの信頼がなければチームはうまくいかない。 Without mutual trust, a team can't function well.
3. 長年の付き合いで深い信頼関係を築いた。 Through years of association, they built a deep relationship of trust.

Usage Guide

Context: relationships, business, teamwork

Tone: warm

Origin & History

Compound of 信 (shin, to believe/trust) and 頼 (rai, to rely on/depend). Together they express trusting and relying on someone or something with confidence.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal