Translation and Meaning of: 意思 - ishi

The Japanese word 意思 (いし) carries significant weight in both everyday and formal vocabulary in Japan. If you have ever wondered how to accurately express "intention" or "purpose" in Japanese, this kanji is the answer. In this article, we will explore everything from its etymology to how it is used in real contexts, including tips for memorization and even trivia that makes this word even more interesting. If you use Suki Nihongo, the largest online Japanese dictionary, know that you will also find practical examples here to include in your Anki or other spaced repetition systems.

In addition to its basic meaning, 意思 appears in situations ranging from casual conversations to legal documents. Did you know that this term is often associated with important decisions, such as consent or free will? Indeed, and it’s no wonder that it comes up in discussions about ethics and even in newspaper headlines. Let’s unravel all of this next, showing how this small word can open doors to a deeper understanding of the Japanese language and culture.

Etymology and Origin of the Kanji 意思

The kanji 意思 is composed of two ideograms: 意 (い), which means "mind" or "intention," and 思 (し), which represents "to think" or "to reflect." Together, they form a concept that goes beyond simple will—it is the clear manifestation of an internal purpose. The combination is not random; it reflects the idea that intention arises from a conscious mental process, something that the ancient Chinese, creators of the kanji, deeply valued.

Interestingly, 思 by itself already carries a poetic image: the upper radical represents a "brain," while the lower part suggests a "heart." This reveals how the Japanese language intertwines emotion and reason in its vocabulary. When you use 意思, you are implicitly saying that your decision was thoughtful—not just a fleeting impulse. This nuance is essential to avoid misunderstandings in serious conversations.

Practical Use and Common Contexts

In daily life, 意思 appears in sentences like 意思を伝える (いしをつたえる), which means "to communicate an intention." Imagine a work meeting where you need to make it clear that you disagree with a proposal—using this term shows that your position is firm and considered. It is also crucial in legal contexts, such as 意思表示 (いしひょうじ), which refers to "expression of intention" in contracts or wills.

Another fascinating scenario is medical use. In Japan, documents such as リビングウィル (living will) are called 意思表明書, where patients record their preferences about future treatments. Do you notice how the word carries an almost solemn weight? This happens because it is tied to individual autonomy, a value deeply respected in Japanese society. If you want to sound natural when talking about important decisions, mastering 意思 is an essential step.

Tips for Memorizing and Curiosities

To fix 意思 in memory, how about associating the first kanji (意) with "idea" and the second (思) with "thought"? Visualize someone saying: "My idea came from a lot of thinking". This little mental story helps avoid confusion with similar , such as 意志 (いし)—which also means "will" but has a more determined, almost stubborn tone. An extra trick: repeat aloud いしをつらぬく ("to maintain your intention"), an expression used when someone persists in their principles.

Here’s a cultural tidbit: in animes and dramas, you may have heard characters shout 意思がある！ ("I have a purpose!"). This cliché phrase reveals how the concept is romanticized in fiction—a hero without 意思 would be like a samurai without a sword. Outside of the screens, the word is also a topic of philosophical discussions in Japan, especially in books about ethics and leadership. How about practicing it today? Write a sentence using 意思 and share it with your teacher or study group.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 意向 (Ikou) - Intention or desire to do something.
• 意志 (Ishi) - Will or determination.
• 意向性 (Ikousei) - Nature or characteristic of having intent.
• 意欲 (Iyoku) - Will, desire or motivation.
• 意志力 (Ishiryu) - Willpower or ability to stay strong.
• 意義 (Igi) - Meaning or importance.
• 意味 (Imi) - Meaning or significance.
• 意念 (Inen) - Thought or idea; it can have a more philosophical connotation.
• 意識 (Ishiki) - Awareness or perception.
• 意向的 (Ikouteki) - Intentionally or with purpose.
• 意図的 (Itoteki) - Deliberately or premeditatedly.
• 意味深長な (Imishinchou na) - Significant; with a deep meaning.
• 意味ありげな (Imi arige na) - That suggests a meaning or connotation; insinuating.