Meaning and Usage
"柔軟" (じゅうなん) primarily means "flexible" or "pliant." It can describe physical flexibility, such as materials that bend easily, or abstract flexibility, like adaptable thinking or behavior.
Common Contexts
You will often see "柔軟" used in contexts involving problem-solving, work environments, or descriptions of materials. For example, a person with "柔軟な考え方" is someone who can think flexibly and adapt to new situations.
Collocations and Patterns
- 柔軟な考え方 (flexible way of thinking): used to describe open-mindedness or adaptability in thought.
- 柔軟な対応 (flexible response): common in work or social situations requiring adaptability.
- 柔軟性がある (to have flexibility): often used to describe both physical and mental flexibility.
Register and Nuance
"柔軟" is a formal word often used in written and professional contexts. It is polite and neutral, suitable for business or academic language.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "柔軟" with "柔らかい" (やわらかい), which means "soft." Remember, "柔軟" emphasizes flexibility or adaptability, not softness.