Japanese word

構う

Pronunciation

Romajikamau

Meaning

  • verbmind

Example

私は一人でも構いません。watashi wa hito ri de mo kama i ma se n

I do not mind being alone.

Illustration for 構う (mind)

More examples

遅れても構いません。oku re te mo kama i ma se n

It is okay if you are late.

Core concept

Treats a person or situation as worthy of attention, concern, or involvement.

Common phrases

  • 入っても構いませんhai tte mo kama i ma se n

    may come in

  • 使っても構いませんtsuka tte mo kama i ma se n

    may use it

  • 質問しても構いませんshitsu mon shi te mo kama i ma se n

    may ask a question

Similar words

気にするkinisuru: To care about something and let it affect one's thoughts or feelings.
心配するshinpaisuru: To be concerned that something bad may happen or be true.

Definition in Japanese

人や物事を気にしたり、問題にしたりする。hito ya mono goto o ki ni shi ta ri mon dai ni shi ta ri su ru

Word origin

構う (kamau) is a native Japanese verb historically written 構ふ (kamafu) and related to 構える (kamaeru), "to prepare or arrange"; its sense developed toward taking concern or becoming involved.

Usage tips

  • The phrase 構いません (kamaimasen) often means that something is acceptable, so its negative form can politely express no objection rather than dislike.

Other meanings

  • care aboutverb
  • botherverb

Opposites

  • 無視するmushisuruignoreverb

Word lists with this word