用心

• Reading: ようじん
• Romaji: youjin
• Kanji breakdown: 用 (yō) — use, employ; 心 (shin/jin) — heart, mind
• Pronunciation: /joː.dʑiɴ/

Meaning

Caution; precaution; vigilance. Being careful to avoid danger or trouble.

A noun that also functions as a suru verb (用心する). Used for being careful and watchful. Common expression 火の用心 (be careful of fire) is called out by neighbourhood watch patrols. Often appears as 用心深い (cautious, prudent). Can describe both physical safety precautions and general wariness.

Examples

1. 夜道は用心して歩いたほうがいい。 You should walk cautiously on the streets at night.
2. 用心深い人はいつも鍵を二重にかける。 A cautious person always double-locks their door.
3. 風が強い日は火の用心が大切だ。 Being careful about fire is important on windy days.

Usage Guide

Context: safety, daily life, travel

Tone: cautionary

Origin & History

Compound of 用 (yō, use/employ) and 心 (jin/shin, heart/mind). Literally 'employing the mind' — keeping one's mind actively engaged for safety.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal