Japanese word

相応

Pronunciation

Romajisōō

Meaning

  • nounappropriate

Example

年齢相応の服装を選びます。nen rei sō ō no fuku sō o era bi ma su

I choose clothes suitable for my age.

Illustration for 相応 (appropriate)

More examples

努力に相応の成果を得ました。do ryoku ni sō ō no sei ka o e ma shi ta

We achieved results commensurate with our efforts.

Core concept

Describes a match between something and the level, needs, or circumstances it relates to.

Common phrases

  • 相応の理由sō ō no ri yū

    a reasonable reason

  • 年齢相応の服装nen rei sō ō no fuku sō

    age-appropriate clothing

Similar words

相当sōtō: A level or amount that corresponds to a stated standard, rank, or degree.
釣り合いtsuriai: A balance in which related amounts, qualities, or demands are proportionate.
適合tekigō: A state in which something fits a purpose, condition, or standard.
均衡kinkō: A state in which two things are balanced in value, size, or importance.

Definition in Japanese

物事の程度や条件などにふさわしくつり合っていること。mono goto no tei do ya jō ken na do ni fu sa wa shi ku tsu ri a tte i ru ko to

Word origin

The Sino-Japanese compound 相応 (sōō) combines 相 (sō, "mutual") and 応 (ō, "respond"), expressing the idea of responding in a matching way.

Usage tips

  • The noun 相応 (sōō) often appears in the formal pattern 相応の (sōō no), where it marks something as matching the level or demands of what precedes it.

Other meanings

  • commensurate with ___noun

Opposites

  • 不相応fusōōinappropriatenessnoun

Related words

  • 相応しいfusawashiisuitablei-adjective

Word lists with this word