Learning how to express the concept of “sensitive” in Japanese can be useful in various situations, whether it’s describing someone’s personality, discussing personal matters, or talking about sensitive subjects. In this guide, we will explore formal and informal ways to convey “sensitive” in Japanese, providing you with tips, examples, and even a glimpse into regional variations. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Sensitive” in Japanese
When it comes to formal situations or polite conversations, you can use the following phrases to express the idea of “sensitive”:
1. 敏感 (びんかん – binkan)
The term “敏感” is a direct translation of “sensitive” and can be used in various contexts. It generally describes someone who is emotionally sensitive or reactive to external stimuli. For example:
彼女は敏感な性格で、言葉に傷つきやすい。(かのじょはびんかんなせいかくで、ことばにきずつきやすい。)
She has a sensitive personality and is easily hurt by words.
2. 神経質 (しんけいしつ – shinkeishitsu)
Another formal way to convey “sensitive” is using the phrase “神経質,” which can refer to being nervous, touchy, or excessive in one’s attention to detail. Here’s an example:
彼は神経質な性格で、小さなことでも気になってしまう。(かれはしんけいしつなせいかくで、ちいさなことでもきになってしまう。)
He is a sensitive person and gets bothered by even small things.
Informal Ways to Say “Sensitive” in Japanese
When speaking casually or in informal settings, different expressions are commonly used to convey the idea of “sensitive.” Below are a few examples:
1. 繊細 (せんさい – sensai)
The term “繊細” is often used in informal conversations and refers to someone who is delicate, sensitive, or easily affected emotionally. For instance:
彼は繊細な心の持ち主だから、優しく接してあげてください。(かれはせんさいなこころのもちぬしですから、やさしくせってあげてください。)
He is a sensitive person, so please treat him kindly.
2. デリケート (でりけーと – derikēto)
Using the borrowed English term “デリケート” (delicate) in Japanese is also common when describing someone as sensitive. This word is recognizable to many Japanese speakers, especially the younger generation. Here’s an example:
彼女はデリケートな問題に関しては議論ができない。(かのじょはでりけーとなもんだいにかんしてはぎろんができない。)
She cannot discuss sensitive topics.
Tips and Regional Variations
While the above phrases encompass the general Tokyo dialect, it’s worth mentioning a notable regional variation:
1. 感受性が強い (かんじゅせいがつよい – kanjusei ga tsuyoi)
In the Kansai region, an alternative way to express sensitivity is the phrase “感受性が強い,” which conveys a similar meaning to “敏感.” Here’s an example:
彼は感受性が強い人間で、音楽や芸術に敏感に反応する。(かれはかんじゅせいがつよいにんげんで、おんがくやげいじゅつにびんかんにはんのうする。)
He is a sensitive person who reacts sensitively to music and art.
Remember, always consider the appropriate level of formality when using these phrases, as context plays a crucial role in Japanese communication.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now learned various ways to express “sensitive” in Japanese, both formally and informally. By understanding these phrases, you can better describe personalities, discuss personal matters, or handle sensitive subjects while maintaining cultural sensitivity. Remember to adapt your choice of words based on the situation and always consider the relationship between yourself and the person you are speaking with. Keep practicing and exploring the rich Japanese language to enhance your communication skills even further!
