気
ki[kʲi]
The English phrase "ki" is translated into Japanese as 気.
気 refers to a fundamental vital energy or life force. This concept of spiritual energy that flows through all living things is central to many martial arts and various East Asian philosophies.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase 気がつく, the word is used to mean that one's awareness or attention has been 'attached' to something, resulting in the meaning "to notice" or "to realize". Additionally, it appears in the word 元気, which conveys the concepts of energy, health and well-being.
How do you pronounce it?
ki
Did you know?
- While 気 represents an invisible energy, its kanji character is composed of the elements for 'steam' or 'vapor' and 'rice'.
- In Japanese social etiquette, 気を遣う describes the act of anticipating others' needs and feelings to avoid causing discomfort, a key part of maintaining harmony.
- Because 気 is so versatile, Japanese has unique terms like 気まずい to describe the specific 'awkward' energy felt during a social tension.
Examples in context
- 彼女は明るい気持ちでした。She had a cheerful mood.
- おはよう！元気？Good morning! How are you?
- 今日の試合は気もちよかったなぁ。Today's game was enjoyable!
- 体の中に気が流れている。karada no naka ni ki ga nagarete iru.Life force is flowing through the body.
Example conversation
Two friends are practicing meditation in a quiet park.
- 結衣 Yui結衣：体の中に気が流れているのを感じる？Karada no naka ni ki ga nagarete iru no o kanjiru?Can you feel the life force flowing through your body?
- 蓮 Ren蓮：うん、少し感じられる気がするよ。Un, sukoshi kanjirareru ki ga suru yo.Yeah, I feel like I can feel it a little.
- 結衣 Yui結衣：その気が大切だよ。Sono ki ga taisetsu da yo.That life force is important.
- 蓮 Ren蓮：もっと集中してみるね。Motto shuuchuu shite miru ne.I will try to focus more.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 気, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
