感動する

• Reading: かんどうする
• Romaji: kandou suru
• Kanji breakdown: 感 (kan) — feel, sense; 動 (dou/ugo) — move, motion
• Pronunciation: /kaŋ.doː.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To be moved; to be deeply impressed; to be touched emotionally.

A Group 3 (irregular) する verb formed from the noun 感動 (deep emotion, being moved). Describes a strong positive emotional response to something beautiful, inspiring, or touching. Common when talking about films, music, speeches, acts of kindness, or natural scenery.

Examples

1. この映画を見て本当に感動しました。 I was truly moved after watching this movie.
2. 彼のスピーチに会場の全員が感動した。 Everyone in the audience was moved by his speech.
3. 美しい景色に感動して写真をたくさん撮った。 I was so moved by the beautiful scenery that I took tons of photos.

Usage Guide

Context: entertainment, arts, personal experiences

Tone: emotional

Origin & History

Compound of 感 (kan) meaning feel or sense and 動 (dou/ugo) meaning move. Together they mean being moved by feeling — an emotion that stirs the heart.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal