Translation and Meaning of: 勤勉 - kinben

The Japanese word 勤勉[きんべん] carries a profound and culturally relevant meaning in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the language, understanding what this word represents can be an important step in comprehending the fundamental values of Japanese society. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, everyday use, and how it relates to the culture of the country.

In addition to uncovering the translation and writing of 勤勉[きんべん], let's analyze its context in real sentences and situations. If you are looking to memorize this word effectively or want to know how it appears in everyday conversations, keep reading to discover all this and much more.

Meaning and Translation of 勤勉 [きんべん]

勤勉[きんべん] is a na-adjective that means "diligent," "dedicated," or "hardworking." It describes someone who puts in effort and persistence into a task, study, or work. The closest translation in English would be "dedicated" or "industrious," but the term carries a stronger connotation of discipline and commitment.

In Japan, being 勤勉 is a highly valued quality, especially in the professional and academic environment. The word reflects a cultural ideal that prioritizes continuous effort and constant improvement. Unlike simply "working hard," 勤勉 implies a conscious and methodical attitude towards responsibilities.

Origin and Components of Kanji

The word 勤勉[きんべん] is composed of two kanjis: 勤 (kin) and 勉 (ben). The first, 勤, means "work" or "service," and is associated with the idea of dedicating oneself to a role. On the other hand, 勉 represents "effort" or "diligence," often used in words related to study, such as 勉強 (benkyou), which means "to study."

This combination is not random. The two kanjis together reinforce the notion of active and disciplined dedication. The origin of the word dates back to the Edo period, when values such as discipline and study began to be even more emphasized in Japanese society. Since then, 勤勉 has become a central concept in the country's work ethic.

Lies in Daily Life and Cultural Context

In Japan, 勤勉 is often used to praise someone who shows great dedication. It can be applied to students who strive in their studies, professionals who stand out for their commitment, or even athletes who train tirelessly. Phrases like "彼は勤勉な学生です" (Kare wa kinben na gakusei desu - "He is a diligent student") are common in everyday conversations.

Culturally, the concept of 勤勉 is linked to values such as 頑張る (ganbaru - "to do your best") and 努力 (doryoku - "effort"). It reflects a mindset that sees hard work as a path to personal and collective growth. It is no wonder that this word frequently appears in motivational speeches, self-help books, and even in animes that address themes of overcoming challenges.

Tips for Memorizing 勤勉 [きんべん]

An effective way to memorize 勤勉 is to associate it with words you already know. For example, the kanji 勉 appears in 勉強 (benkyou - "study"), while 勤 can be found in 勤務 (kinmu - "service" or "work"). Creating a mental connection between these helps to cement the meaning more quickly.

Another tip is to use the word in real contexts. Try writing sentences like "私はもっと勤勉になりたい" (Watashi wa motto kinben ni naritai - "I want to become more diligent") or note situations where you observed someone being 勤勉. The more you practice, the more natural the use of this term will be in your vocabulary.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 勤勉 (kinben) - Diligence, constant effort.
• まじめ (majime) - Serious, dedicated (with a connotation of honesty).
• 真面目 (majime) - Serious, committed (focus on character and ethical stance).
• 熱心 (nesshin) - Enthusiasm, fervent dedication.
• 精励 (seirei) - Diligent and meticulous work.
• 努力 (doryoku) - Effort, determination to achieve a goal.
• 勤労 (kinrō) - Diligent work, in the sense of hard work.
• 勤務 (kinmu) - Service, work (in a position or role).
• 勤め (tsutome) - Function, obligation (related to a job or task).
• 勤める (tsutomeru) - Work in a job, fulfill an obligation.
• 勤続 (kinsuzoku) - Continuity in work, lasting connection to a job.
• 勤続する (kinsuzoku suru) - Continue working at the same job.
• 勤勉な (kinben na) - Being hardworking, diligent (descriptive adjective).
• 勤勉に (kinben ni) - Diligently, with effort.
• 勤勉さ (kinben sa) - The quality of being diligent.
• 勤勉さを求める (kinben sa o motomeru) - Seek the quality of diligence.
• 勤勉さを重んじる (kinben sa o omonjiru) - Valuing the quality of diligence.
• 勤勉さを貫く (kinben sa o tsuranuku) - Maintain a consistently high level of diligence.
• 勤勉さを尊ぶ (kinben sa o tatomuru) - Respect the quality of diligence.
• 勤勉さを持つ (kinben sa o motsu) - To possess the quality of diligence.
• 勤勉さを育む (kinben sa o hagukumu) - Cultivate the quality of diligence.
• 勤勉さを励む (kinben sa o hagemu) - Foster the quality of diligence.
• 勤勉さを奨励する (kinben sa o shōrei suru) - Encourage the quality of diligence.
• 勤勉さを称える (kinben sa o tataeru) - Exalt the quality of diligence.