元気

• Reading: げんき
• Romaji: genki
• Kanji breakdown: 元 (gen/moto) — origin, source; 気 (ki/ke) — spirit, energy
• Pronunciation: /ɡeɴ.ki/

Meaning

Lively; energetic; healthy; well. Describes good physical and mental condition.

A na-adjective and noun that describes being in good health and high spirits. One of the first words learners encounter in お元気ですか (How are you?). Also used as encouragement: 元気を出して (Cheer up!). Can describe people, animals, or even plants that are thriving. The negative 元気がない means looking listless or unwell.

Examples

1. お元気ですか。はい、元気です。 How are you? Yes, I'm doing well.
2. 今日は子供たちがとても元気だ。 The kids are really energetic today.
3. 旅行から帰って元気になりました。 I feel better now that I'm back from the trip.

Usage Guide

Context: greetings, health, daily life

Tone: positive

Origin & History

Compound of 元 (gen, origin/source) and 気 (ki, spirit/energy). Literally 'original energy,' referring to the vital force one is born with.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal