平静
heisei[he̞ːse̞ː]
The English phrase 'serenity' can be translated into Japanese as 平静 (heisei). If unsure, use 平静. Wiktionary also lists セレニティ (sereniti).
Meaning: lack of agitation (noun)
Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| 平静 | heisei | [he̞ːse̞ː] (narrow) |
| セレニティ | sereniti | [se̞ɾe̞ɲ̟itʲi] (narrow) |
平静 refers to a lack of agitation. For more specific contexts, other words may be used: 平穏 represents a state of calmness and tranquility, while 静寂 refers to a state of silence and tranquility, often used to describe the peacefulness found in nature.
Which one should you use?
The katakana form セレニティ is a phonetic transliteration of the English word 'serenity'.
How do you pronounce it?
heisei
Did you know?
- In Japanese culture, the concept of 'serenity' is often linked to 間 (ma), the artistic use of empty space or silence. While 平静 describes an internal state, 間 is the external serenity created by what is not there.
- If you use the katakana セレニティ in a Japanese sentence, it sounds like an exotic brand name or a title from a fantasy game rather than a natural part of conversation.
- In Japanese aesthetics, the feeling of serenity is often linked to 'Wabi-sabi', which finds beauty in imperfection and transience.
Examples in context
- As I sat by the serene lake, I couldn't help but be overwhelmed by the 平穏 (heion) of the surroundings.As I sat by the serene lake, I couldn't help but be overwhelmed by the serenity of the surroundings.
- This traditional tea ceremony provides a sense of 静寂 (seijaku) that allows one to find inner peace and tranquility.This traditional tea ceremony provides a sense of silence and tranquility that allows one to find inner peace and tranquility.
- Despite the chaos around us, her presence exudes a sense of 安らぎ (yasuragi) that brings comfort and peace.Despite the chaos around us, her presence exudes a sense of peace of mind that brings comfort and peace.
- The old town charm of Kyoto offers visitors a feeling of 落ち着き (ochitsuki) that is rare to find in bustling cities.The old town charm of Kyoto offers visitors a feeling of composure and tranquility that is rare to find in bustling cities.
- 彼は常に平静を保っている。Kare wa tsune ni heisei o tamotte iru.He always maintains his serenity.
- 嵐の前の平静な時間。Arashi no mae no heisei na jikan.A serene time before the storm.
- 彼女は平静な表情を見せた。Kanojo wa heisei na hyoujou o miseta.She showed a serene expression.
Example conversation
Kenta and Yui are discussing how to stay calm during a busy workday.
- 健太 Kenta仕事が忙しくて、平静を保つのが難しいよ。Shigoto ga isogashikute, heisei o tamatsu no ga muzukashii yo.Work is so busy, it's hard to maintain my serenity.
- 結衣 Yui健太さんは、もっとリラックスした方がいいよ。Kenta-san wa, motto rirakkusu shita hou ga ii yo.Kenta, you should try to relax more.
- 健太 Kentaどうすれば平静になれるかな？Dou sureba heisei ni nareru kana?I wonder how I can become serene?
- 結衣 Yui深呼吸をすることが大切だよ。Shinkokyuu o suru koto ga taisetsu da yo.Taking deep breaths is important.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “serenity” translations and entries 平静, セレニティ, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
