Japanese word

位

Pronunciation

Romajikurai

Meaning

  • nounstatus

Example

彼女は社会で高い位にあります。kano jo wa sha kai de taka i kurai ni a ri ma su

She has high status in society.

Illustration for 位 (status)

More examples

長年の努力で、彼は会社で高い位に就きました。naga nen no do ryoku de kare wa gai sha de taka i kurai ni tsu ki ma shi ta

After years of hard work, he attained a high position in the company.

Core concept

Describes the position a person holds within a social or organizational order.

Common phrases

  • 高い位taka i kurai

    high status

  • 位に就くkurai ni zu ku

    attain a position

Similar words

地位chii: A person's position or standing in a society or organization.
身分mibun: A person's social rank or place in a social system.
格kaku: The rank or standing recognized for a person or organization.

Definition in Japanese

社会や組織の中での人の地位や身分。sha kai ya so shiki no naka de no hito no chi i ya mi bun

Word origin

The noun 位 (kurai, "rank or status") is a native Japanese word historically written くらゐ (kurawi), while the kanji 位 is a Chinese loan character meaning "rank" or "position".

Usage tips

  • In Japanese, 位 (kurai) can describe social standing without implying that the person deserves or does not deserve that position.

Word lists with this word