感心

かんしん

admiration

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"感心" (かんしん) primarily means "admiration" or "being impressed." It is often used when you want to express respect or praise for someone's actions, qualities, or achievements.

Common Contexts

You will hear "感心" in everyday conversations when someone wants to compliment another person's effort or skill. It can be used both in formal and informal settings but tends to be polite and respectful.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 感心する: to be impressed or admire
  • 感心な + noun: describes someone or something admirable or praiseworthy
  • 感心するばかり: only admiration, often implying a bit of helplessness or awe

Nuances

When you say "感心しました," you imply genuine respect and positive evaluation. Avoid confusing "感心" with "関心" (interest), which sounds similar but means something different.

Tips

Use "感心" when you want to highlight admiration for someone's effort or character. It is less about casual liking and more about respect and praise.

Example Sentences

かれのどりょくにはほんとうにかんしんしました。

I was truly impressed by his effort.

かんしんするばかりで、どうしていいかわからない。

I'm just full of admiration and don't know what to do.

かんしんなこどもは、よくべんきょうしている。

A diligent child studies well.