Japanese word

念

Pronunciation

Romajinen

Meaning

  • nounattention

Example

仕事に念を入れます。shi goto ni nen o i re ma su

I pay close attention to my work.

Illustration for 念 (attention)

More examples

大切な手紙なので、誤字がないか念を入れて確認します。tai setsu na te gami na no de go ji ga na i ka nen o i re te kaku nin shi ma su

Because it is an important letter, I carefully check it for typos.

Core concept

Describes the mind staying directed toward something as a thought, concern, or feeling.

Common phrases

  • 念のためnen no ta me

    as a precaution

  • 念を入れるnen o i re ru

    be thorough

  • 念を押すnen o o su

    make doubly sure

Similar words

注意chūi: Careful attention is given to a person, thing, or task to avoid mistakes or danger.
用心yōjin: Care is taken to prevent trouble, danger, or an unwanted result.

Definition in Japanese

物事を心にとどめて考えたり、注意を向けたりすること。mono goto o kokoro ni to do me te kanga e ta ri chū i o mu ke ta ri su ru ko to

Word origin

The Sino-Japanese word 念 (nen, "thought") uses a Chinese character associated with keeping an idea in the mind, which connects attention with thought and feeling.

Usage tips

  • When 念 (nen) occurs in 念のため (nen no tame), it signals an extra check or precaution, a frequent everyday use distinct from merely thinking about something.

Other meanings

  • thoughtnoun
  • feelingnoun

Opposites

  • 無関心mukanshinindifferencenoun

Related words

Word lists with this word