親切

• Reading: しんせつ
• Romaji: shinsetsu
• Kanji breakdown: 親 (shin/oya) — parent, intimate, close; 切 (setsu/ki) — earnest, cut, important
• Pronunciation: /ɕiɴ.se.t͡sɯ/

Meaning

Kind; gentle; considerate; friendly. Describes a person who is thoughtful and helpful toward others.

A na-adjective and noun expressing kindness and consideration. Used to describe people and their actions: 親切な人 (a kind person), 親切にしてくれた (was kind to me). Also used as a noun: ご親切にありがとうございます (Thank you for your kindness). A key word in Japanese social vocabulary, where consideration for others is highly valued.

Examples

1. 近所の人はとても親切です。 The people in my neighborhood are very kind.
2. 親切な先生に教えてもらいました。 A kind teacher taught me.
3. みんなが親切にしてくれました。 Everyone was kind to me.

Usage Guide

Context: people, social interactions, compliments

Tone: positive

Origin & History

Composed of 親 (parent, intimate) and 切 (earnest, pressing). The idea is being as caring as a parent — treating others with intimate, earnest concern.

Cultural Context

Era: Medieval

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal