JLPT N3

Understanding 情 (じょう)

The kanji 情 primarily relates to feelings, emotions, and passion. It often appears in words that describe human emotions or emotional states. When you see 情, think about the emotional or sentimental aspect of a situation or person.

Common Uses and Nuances

情 is used in both formal and informal contexts but often carries a slightly literary or emotional tone. It can refer to deep feelings (情に厚い), emotional attachment, or passion (情熱). It is also used in expressions about emotional influence or transfer.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 情に厚い (じょうにあつい): "deeply emotional or compassionate" – used to describe someone who is warm-hearted.
  • 情熱 (じょうねつ): "passion" – often used to express strong enthusiasm or dedication.
  • 情が移る (じょうがうつる): "feelings transfer" – used when emotions or attachments shift from one person or thing to another.

Tips for Learners

情 is often confused with 感, another kanji related to feelings, but 感 focuses more on sensation or perception, while 情 emphasizes emotional depth and attachment. When using 情, consider the emotional weight or passion behind the context.

Use 情 in expressions to convey heartfelt emotions or strong passion, especially in written or polite speech.

Example Sentences

かれはじょうにあついひとだ。

He is a person with deep feelings.

じょうがうつることもあるから、きをつけて。

Sometimes feelings transfer, so be careful.

じょうねつをもってしごとにとりくむ。

Work with passion.