享受

きょうじゅ

enjoyment, being given

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word "享受" (きょうじゅ) primarily means "to enjoy" or "to receive and enjoy something, often a benefit or privilege." It is often used in formal or written contexts rather than casual conversation.

Common Contexts

"享受" is frequently used when talking about enjoying intangible benefits such as freedom, rights, or natural blessings. For example, "自由を享受する" means "to enjoy freedom."

Collocations and Patterns

  • 享受する: to enjoy or receive (a benefit, privilege, or pleasure)
  • 自由を享受する: to enjoy freedom
  • 恩恵を享受する: to enjoy a blessing or benefit

Register and Nuance

This word tends to appear in formal writing, news articles, or academic texts. It is less common in everyday spoken Japanese, where simpler verbs like 楽しむ (たのしむ) might be preferred.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse 享受 with 楽しむ. While both relate to enjoyment, 享受 often implies receiving or benefiting from something external, whereas 楽しむ is more about personal enjoyment or fun. Use 享受 when emphasizing the reception of a benefit or privilege.

Example Sentences

かれはじゆうをきょうじゅしている。

He is enjoying freedom.

このちいきはゆたかなしぜんのおんけいをきょうじゅしている。

This area enjoys the benefits of rich nature.

かのじょはおんがくのたのしさをこころからきょうじゅしている。

She truly enjoys the pleasure of music.