潜入

せんにゅう

infiltration, sneaking in

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"潜入" (せんにゅう) means "infiltration" or "sneaking in." It is often used in contexts involving secret or covert entry into a place, such as espionage, police investigations, or military operations. The word carries a serious and formal nuance, typically used in news reports, novels, or formal speech.

Common Collocations

  • 潜入捜査 (せんにゅうそうさ): undercover investigation, used when police or agents secretly enter a location to gather evidence.
  • 敵地に潜入 (てきちにせんにゅう): infiltrate enemy territory, common in military or spy contexts.
  • 潜入する (verb form): to sneak in or infiltrate.

Usage Notes

When using "潜入," the speaker implies a secretive and often risky action of entering a place without permission or detection. It is not used for casual or everyday entering but for deliberate covert operations.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse "潜入" with simpler verbs like "入る" (to enter). Remember, "潜入" emphasizes secrecy and stealth, so it is inappropriate for normal or open entry situations.

Example Sentences

スパイがてきのきちにせんにゅうした。

The spy infiltrated the enemy base.

けいさつははんにんのアジトにせんにゅうそうさをおこなった。

The police conducted undercover investigation by infiltrating the criminal's hideout.

せんにゅうするさいはしゅういのけいかいをじゅうぶんにかくにんしてください。

When sneaking in, please thoroughly check the surrounding vigilance.