平和

• Reading: へいわ
• Romaji: heiwa
• Kanji breakdown: 平 (hei/tai/hira) — flat, level, peaceful; 和 (wa/nago) — harmony, peace, Japan
• Pronunciation: /he.i.wa/

Meaning

Peace; harmony. A state free from war, conflict, or disturbance.

Functions as both a noun and a na-adjective (平和な). Deeply important in Japanese post-war culture. Key phrases include 世界平和 (world peace), 平和な暮らし (peaceful life), and 平和記念公園 (Peace Memorial Park) in Hiroshima. Often appears in speeches and essays.

Examples

1. 世界の平和を願っています。 I wish for world peace.
2. この町はとても平和な場所です。 This town is a very peaceful place.
3. 平和のために何ができるか考えましょう。 Let's think about what we can do for peace.

Usage Guide

Context: news, education, daily life

Tone: positive

Origin & History

Compound of 平 (flat, level, peaceful) and 和 (harmony, peace, Japan). Both characters convey calmness and balance, together expressing a state of tranquil harmony.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal