Meaning and Usage
"平気" (へいき) means being calm, unconcerned, or unaffected by something that might normally cause worry or distress. It often describes a person's emotional state or reaction to situations.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used to express that someone is "okay" or "fine" despite difficulties or disturbances. It can also imply a lack of sensitivity or remorse, especially in phrases like "平気で嘘をつく" (to lie without hesitation).
Collocations and Patterns
- 平気な顔をする: to show a calm or indifferent face
- 平気で + verb: doing something without concern or hesitation (often negative actions like lying)
- 平気で寝る: to sleep soundly despite noise or disturbance
Register and Nuance
"平気" is casual to neutral in tone and is common in everyday conversation. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative nuance when describing someone who is indifferent to others' feelings or social norms.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "平気" with "大丈夫" (だいじょうぶ), which also means "okay" or "fine." While "大丈夫" often refers to physical or situational safety, "平気" emphasizes emotional calmness or lack of concern.