Understanding 気兼ね
気兼ね expresses a feeling of hesitation, restraint, or being self-conscious around others. It often implies holding back because you don’t want to impose or cause discomfort.
Usage and Nuance
This word is commonly used when describing social situations where someone feels they must be careful about their behavior or words. It can be about politeness, shyness, or concern for others’ feelings.
Common Collocations
- 気兼ねなく (きがねなく): without hesitation or restraint — used to describe doing something freely without worry.
- 気兼ねする (きがねする): to feel constrained or hesitant — often used to describe one’s feelings toward others.
- 気兼ねしないで (きがねしないで): don’t hesitate or hold back — a phrase encouraging openness.
Register and Usage Tips
気兼ね is somewhat formal and often appears in polite conversation or writing. It’s useful for expressing subtle social discomfort without being too direct.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 気兼ね with simple hesitation or nervousness. 気兼ね specifically involves social restraint or concern about others’ feelings, not just personal uncertainty.