Japanese Conversation · Level 84
60 words
Japanese word
理性
Pronunciation
Romajirisei
Meaning
- nounreason
Example
困った時こそ、理性を働かせてください。koma tta toki ko so ri sei o hatara ka se te ku da sa i
When you are in trouble, please use your reason.
More examples
大切な決断をする前に、理性を取り戻してください。tai setsu na ketsu dan o su ru mae ni ri sei o to ri modo shi te ku da sa i
Please regain your reason before making an important decision.
Core concept
Refers to the mental capacity that organizes thought by principles and guides judgment instead of letting immediate feelings decide.
Common phrases
理性を働かせるri sei o hatara ka se ru
use one's reason
理性を失うri sei o ushina u
lose one's reason
理性に訴えるri sei ni utta e ru
appeal to reason
Similar words
理智richi: The capacity for calm, logical thought and judgment.
判断力handanryoku: The ability to assess a situation and reach a sound decision.
分別bunbetsu: Good sense that guides proper conduct and restrains reckless actions.
Definition in Japanese
物事を道理に基づいて考え、適切に判断する心の働き。mono goto o dō ri ni moto zu i te kanga e teki setsu ni han dan su ru kokoro no hatara ki
Word origin
The Sino-Japanese noun 理性 (risei, "reason") combines 理 (ri, "principle") and 性 (sei, "nature"), forming a term for the human capacity for rational thought.
Usage tips
- In Japanese philosophical and formal writing, 理性 (risei) often contrasts with 感情 (kanjō, "emotion"), framing a contrast between deliberate thought and feeling.