Understanding 生理
The word 生理 (せいり) primarily refers to two related but distinct concepts: physiology, the biological functions of living organisms, and menstruation (menses) in everyday conversation.
Usage in Context
When talking about biology or medicine, 生理 often appears in compound words like 生理学 (physiology) or 生理現象 (physiological phenomena). In casual conversation, especially among women, 生理 commonly refers to the menstrual period.
Common Collocations
- 生理が来る: to have one's period
- 生理痛: menstrual pain
- 生理用品: sanitary products
- 生理学: physiology (academic subject)
Register and Nuance
生理 as menstruation is a polite and neutral term, suitable for conversations in both casual and formal settings. It is less direct or crude than some slang terms. When used in scientific contexts, it is always formal and technical.
Learner Tips
Be careful not to confuse 生理 with 生理的 (せいりてき), which means "physiological" or "natural." Also, when using 生理 to mean menstruation, it often appears with verbs like 来る (to come) or ある (to have). For example, 生理が来た means "my period started."