Japanese word

繊細

Pronunciation

Romajisensai

Meaning

  • na-adjectivedelicate

Example

この模様は繊細です。ko no mo yō wa sen sai de su

This pattern is delicate.

Illustration for 繊細 (delicate)

More examples

この生地は繊細なので、洗濯機を使わないでください。ko no ki ji wa sen sai na no de sen taku ki o tsuka wa na i de ku da sa i

This fabric is delicate, so please do not put it in the washing machine.

Core concept

Refers to something made with fine detail and a light, refined quality rather than blunt strength.

Common phrases

  • 繊細な布地sen sai na nuno ji

    delicate fabric

  • 繊細なデザインsen sai na de za i n

    delicate design

  • 繊細な味sen sai na aji

    delicate taste

Similar words

精緻seichi: Made with exceptionally fine and exact detail.
緻密chimitsu: Containing many closely worked details arranged with great exactness.
優美yūbi: Having a graceful, refined, and pleasing form.

Definition in Japanese

形やつくりが細かく整い、上品で美しいさま。katachi ya tsu ku ri ga koma ka ku totono i jō hin de utsuku shi i sa ma

Word origin

繊細 (sensai) combines the on-yomi readings of 繊 (sen, "fine thread") and 細 (sai, "thin"), linking fineness and thinness in one word.

Usage tips

  • In art and design writing, delicate often praises fine lines, light colors, or small details rather than only describing physical weakness.

Other meanings

  • finena-adjective
  • daintyna-adjective

Opposites

Related words

  • 繊細さsensaisadelicacynoun

Word lists with this word