Translation and Meaning of: 切実 - setsujitsu

The Japanese word 切実 [せつじつ] carries an emotional and practical weight that goes beyond its literal translation. If you've encountered it in texts, songs, or dialogues, you may have felt a certain urgency or seriousness in the context. In this article, we will explore its meaning, everyday use, and even how it reflects cultural values of Japan. If you study Japanese or simply have an interest in the language, understanding 切実 is essential to grasp important nuances in conversations and readings.

Meaning and translation of 切実

切実 is an adjective in the (形容動詞) that describes something as "urgent," "serious," or "intense." It conveys the idea of a deep need or emotion, often related to situations that require immediate attention. For example, when someone says "切実な問題" (setsujitsu na mondai), they are referring to an "urgent problem" or "critical issue."

Translating 切実 into other languages can be a challenge, as its meaning varies depending on the context. In English, depending on the sentence, it can equate to "urgent," "distressing," or even "sincere"—as in a request made with genuine need. This semantic flexibility makes the word frequently used in serious or emotional discussions.

Cultural use and frequency in Japanese

In Japan, 切実 is not a word used casually. It appears more frequently in formal contexts, news, or dialogues that convey a sense of urgency. For example, in reports about natural disasters or social crises, it is common to hear expressions like "切実な支援が必要" (setsujitsu na shien ga hitsuyou) — "urgent assistance is needed."

Culturally, the word reflects the Japanese appreciation for seriousness and a sense of responsibility. When someone describes a desire as 切実, they are emphasizing that it is not just a whim, but something vital. This nuance is important to avoid misunderstandings, especially in serious or professional conversations.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to fixate on 切実 is to associate it with situations of great importance or emergencies. Think of phrases like "切実に願う" (setsujitsu ni negau) — "to wish deeply" — to the emotional tone it carries. Another tip is to observe its use in dramas or news reports, where the word often appears in decisive moments.

Avoid using 切実 for trivial or less relevant things. For example, saying that you have "切実な眠気" (urgent sleepiness) would sound exaggerated unless you have been without sleep for days. Mastering this balance is crucial to sound natural in Japanese and to avoid out-of-context expressions.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 切実 (setsujitsu) - Urgent; very serious.
• 心から (kokoro kara) - From the heart; sincerely.
• 真剣 (shinken) - Seriously; with full attention.
• 熱心 (nesshin) - Enthusiastic; fervent in your efforts.
• 真心 (magokoro) - True heart; sincerity.
• 真摯 (shinshi) - Serious; genuine.
• 真剣勝負 (shinken shoubu) - Serious competition; serious fight.
• 真剣に (shinken ni) - Seriously; with total commitment.
• 本気 (honki) - Seriousness; true intent.
• 本心 (honshin) - True self; genuine feeling.
• 誠心誠意 (seishin seii) - Total sincerity; complete honesty.
• 誠実 (seijitsu) - Honesty; sincerity.
• 一途 (ichizu) - Focused; determined on a single objective.
• 一心不乱 (isshin furan) - Absolute focus; no distractions.
• 真心込めて (magokoro komete) - With genuineness; with all my heart.
• まじめ (majime) - Serious; diligent.
• まじめに (majime ni) - Seriously; diligently.
• まじめな (majime na) - Serious; with reputable character.
• まじめな気持ち (majime na kimochi) - Serious feelings; sincere feelings.
• まじめに考える (majime ni kangaeru) - Think seriously; reflect carefully.
• 真剣に考える (shinken ni kangaeru) - Think seriously; reflect with total focus.
• まじめに取り組む (majime ni torikumu) - Face seriously; dedicate oneself seriously.
• まじめにやる (majime ni yaru) - Do it with seriousness; carry it out with dedication.
• まじめに勉強する (majime ni benkyou suru) - Study seriously; dedicate yourself to your studies.