Translation and Meaning of: 省みる - kaerimiru

The Japanese word 省みる (かえりみる) carries a profound meaning and is often used in contexts of reflection and self-assessment. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, writing in kanji, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. If you are studying Japanese or are just curious about this expression, understanding its usage can enrich your vocabulary and cultural comprehension.

In addition to uncovering the translation and grammatical structure of 省みる, we will cover practical tips for memorization and examples of how it appears in real situations. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, offers detailed information about this and other essential words for those who wish to master the language.

Meaning and usage of 省みる

The verb 省みる (かえりみる) means "to reflect upon," "to consider," or "to look back," usually in the sense of evaluating past actions. It is composed of the kanjis 省 (which can mean "ministry" or "omit") and みる ("to see"), but its interpretation goes beyond the sum of its parts. This word is often used in introspective contexts, such as in discussions about personal behavior or important decisions.

Unlike just ing something, 省みる implies a deeper analysis. For example, a teacher may ask students to 省みる their performance over the semester, suggesting not just to recall, but to critically evaluate. This nuance makes the word common in motivational speeches, literature, and even in anime dialogues that address personal growth.

Origin and writing of kanji

The etymology of 省みる dates back to the kanji 省, which originally represented the idea of "carefully observing" in ancient China. Over time, this character acquired other meanings, such as "ministry" (for example, 文部科学省 – Ministry of Education), but in 省みる it retains its essence of examining something attentively. The radical 目 (eye) present in the kanji reinforces this connection to the idea of "seeing" or "observing."

It is worth noting that the reading かえりみる is one of several possibilities for the kanji 省, which can confuse beginners. While alone it can be read as しょう (as in 反省 – hanshou, "regret"), in verb form it takes on this specific pronunciation. This duality is common in many kanjis and reinforces the importance of studying words in context, not just isolated characters.

Tips to memorize and use 省みる

An effective way to solidify 省みる is to associate it with everyday situations of reflection. Think of moments when you paused to analyze your actions – perhaps after a discussion or at the end of a project. Creating personal sentences with this word, such as "毎日、自分を省みる時間を作る" (I set aside daily time to reflect on myself), helps to internalize its correct usage.

Another strategy is to observe how 省みる appears in authentic materials. Japanese dramas and articles about personal development often employ this verb. When you find it in context, write down the complete sentence to understand its nuances. Over time, you will naturally differentiate when to use it instead of synonyms like 考える (to think) or 思い出す (to ).