認識

にんしき

recognition, cognizance

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"認識" (にんしき) means "recognition" or "cognizance" and is used to describe the awareness or understanding of facts, situations, or concepts. It is a formal noun often used in academic, business, or official contexts.

Common Contexts

It frequently appears when discussing awareness of problems, social issues, or new information. For example, "問題の認識" (recognition of a problem) or "社会的認識" (social awareness).

Collocations and Patterns

  • 認識する: to recognize or be aware of something.
  • 認識不足: lack of recognition or awareness, often used to explain causes of misunderstandings or mistakes.
  • 認識を深める: to deepen one's understanding or awareness.

Register and Nuance

"認識" is formal and not typically used in casual conversation. It conveys a thoughtful or analytical awareness rather than a simple or immediate perception.

Common Learner Pitfall

Learners sometimes confuse "認識" with "理解" (understanding). While both relate to cognition, "認識" emphasizes awareness or acknowledgment, whereas "理解" focuses more on comprehension or grasping meaning. Use "認識" when highlighting awareness or recognition of a fact or situation.

Example Sentences

かれはもんだいのじゅうようせいをただしくにんしきしている。

He correctly recognizes the importance of the problem.

あたらしいぎじゅつのにんしきがひろまっている。

Awareness of the new technology is spreading.

にんしきぶそくがげんいんでトラブルがおきた。

The trouble occurred due to a lack of recognition.