Japanese Conversation · Level 133
60 words
Japanese word
葛藤
Pronunciation
Romajikattō
Meaning
- nounconflict
Example
彼は進学するか就職するかで葛藤しています。kare wa shin gaku su ru ka shū shoku su ru ka de kat tō shi te i ma su
He is struggling over whether to go to college or get a job.
More examples
彼女は理想と現実の葛藤を言葉にしました。kano jo wa ri sō to gen jitsu no kat tō o koto ba ni shi ma shi ta
She put the conflict between her ideals and reality into words.
Core concept
Refers to a clash between opposing forces, especially when competing desires or choices pull a person in different directions.
Common phrases
葛藤を抱えるkat tō o kaka e ru
have inner conflict
葛藤と向き合うkat tō to mu ki a u
face inner conflict
葛藤を解消するkat tō o kai shō su ru
resolve inner conflict
Similar words
ジレンマjirenma: A difficult choice between two options that cannot both be satisfied.
板挟みitabasami: A situation where opposing parties place incompatible demands on the same person.
相克sōkoku: A mutual struggle between opposing forces, motives, or principles.
Definition in Japanese
二つ以上の相反する考えや気持ちが対立し、心の中で迷い苦しむこと。futa tsu i jō no ai han su ru kanga e ya ki mo chi ga tai ritsu shi kokoro no naka de mayo i kuru shi mu ko to
Word origin
The Sino-Japanese term 葛藤 (kattō) is formed from 葛 (katsu, "kudzu") and 藤 (tō, "wisteria"), plants known for their intertwined vines, giving the word its sense of entanglement.
Usage tips
- Unlike a momentary hesitation, 葛藤 (kattō) suggests a sustained tension between incompatible feelings or aims, so it can describe an experience rather than a dispute.