JLPT · Level 111
30 words
Japanese word
謙遜
Pronunciation
Romajikenson
Meaning
- nounhumility
Example
先生はほめられても謙遜します。sen sei wa ho me ra re te mo ken son shi ma su
The teacher stays humble even when praised.
More examples
彼の謙遜は、かえって周囲を安心させました。kare no ken son wa ka e tte shū i o an shin sa se ma shi ta
His humility actually put those around him at ease.
Core concept
Expresses modesty by placing one's achievements in the background rather than presenting them as a reason for praise.
Common phrases
謙遜を示すken son o shime su
show humility
過度な謙遜ka do na ken son
excessive humility
Similar words
謙虚kenkyo: A modest attitude that does not overstate personal abilities or achievements.
謙譲kenjō: A humble attitude that gives credit or status to others while lowering one's own standing.
卑下hige: An attitude of treating oneself as less worthy or capable than one really is.
Definition in Japanese
自分の価値や手柄を前面に出さず、他人に対して控えめに振る舞うこと。ji bun no ka chi ya te gara o zen men ni da sa zu ta nin ni tai shi te hika e me ni fu ru ma u ko to
Word origin
The compound 謙遜 (kenson) combines 謙 (ken, "modest") with 遜 (son, "yield"), linking humility with giving way to others.
Usage tips
- The English word humblebrag describes a boast disguised as modesty, while 謙遜 (kenson) refers to genuine modest behavior or the act of downplaying praise.