Meaning and Usage
"純粋" (じゅんすい) means "pure," "genuine," or "unmixed." It is often used to describe something that is free from contamination or adulteration, such as pure substances or sincere feelings.
Common Contexts
It can describe physical purity, like pure water or juice, as well as abstract qualities like a pure heart or genuine intentions.
Collocations and Patterns
- 純粋な心 (じゅんすいなこころ): pure heart, often used to describe innocence or sincerity.
- 純粋な動機 (じゅんすいなどうき): genuine motive, emphasizing honesty or sincerity.
- 純粋な水 (じゅんすいなみず): pure water, indicating no impurities.
Register and Nuance
"純粋" is a formal and somewhat literary word, suitable for written and spoken Japanese. It conveys a positive nuance, often implying innocence or authenticity.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse "純粋" with "清純" (せいじゅん), which also means pure but often refers specifically to purity in a moral or sexual sense. "純粋" is broader and can be used for substances and abstract qualities alike.