自分
jibun[d͡ʑibɯ̟̃ɴ]
The Japanese word for "yourself" is 自分 (jibun).
自分 is a reflexive pronoun meaning "one's own self." In certain social settings or specific dialects, it can also function as a first-person pronoun meaning "I" or "myself." To describe an action performed "by oneself" or "on one's own," the particle で is often added to the word to form 自分で.
Meaning: (reflexive) your own self (pron)
Is it said differently in some regions?
As noted, the use of 自分 as a first-person pronoun meaning "I" is found in certain dialects.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the manner or means of an action (doing something "by oneself"), use the form 自分で.
How do you pronounce it?
jibun
Did you know?
- The word 自分 is a translation of a Chinese Buddhist term that refers to the 'true self'. Its modern use as a general pronoun evolved from these philosophical roots.
- In certain masculine dialects, particularly in older speech, 自分 functions as a way to refer to the listener as 'you' in a very specific, often confrontational, way.
- In professional settings, using 自分 to refer to yourself can sound more humble and stoic than using standard pronouns, often used by soldiers or athletes.
Examples in context
- 自分でやれ。Do it yourself.This sentence shows how to use 自分 to express doing something yourself.Tatoeba #10951039 by small_snow, translation #71396 by CK
- 自分でしろ。Do it yourself!This sentence demonstrates the use of 自分 in a command.Tatoeba #10951044 by small_snow, translation #759353 by vgigregg
- 自分でおやり！Do it by yourself.This sentence shows a way to express doing something by yourself.Tatoeba #3449171 by arnab, translation #327656 by CK
- 150 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
A supportive conversation between two colleagues in an office.
- 健太 Kenta美咲さんはとても優秀です。Misaki-san wa totemo yūshū desu.Misaki, you are very talented.
- 美咲 Misakiでも、自分に自信がありません。Demo, jibun ni jishin ga arimasen.But, I don't have confidence in myself.
- 健太 Kenta自分を信じて、頑張ってください。Jibun o shinjite, ganbatte kudasai.Believe in yourself and do your best.
- 美咲 Misakiありがとうございます、健太さん。Arigatō gozaimasu, Kenta-san.Thank you, Kenta.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 自分, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
