Translation and Meaning of: 心配 - shinpai

If you are learning Japanese, you have probably come across the word 心配[しんぱい]. It appears frequently in everyday conversations, animes, and even in songs. But what exactly does it mean? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and cultural uses of this word, as well as practical tips for memorizing it. Whether for study or out of curiosity, understanding 心配 will help you communicate more naturally in Japanese.

Meaning and translation of 心配

心配 is a Japanese word that can be translated as "worry" or "anxiety." It is used to express a feeling of unease regarding something or someone. For example, if a friend is sick, you can say "心配しています" (I am worried).

It is worth noting that, although it has a negative connotation, 心配 can also be used in a positive way. In some contexts, it means "care" or "attention." A parent may say to their child, "お母さんは心配しているよ" (your mother is worried about you), showing affection and protection.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The word 心配 is formed by two kanjis: 心 (heart, mind) and 配 (to distribute, to care). Together, they convey the idea of something that occupies the mind or is distributed as a concern. This combination well reflects the emotional meaning of the word.

According to the dictionary 漢字源, one of the most respected in Japan, the kanji 配 has its origins in ancient representations of food distribution, later evolving to the meaning of "taking care of something." 心 has always been associated with emotions and thoughts. This combination creates a term that encompasses both the rational and emotional aspects of concern.

Cultural usage and frequency in Japan

In Japan, expressing concern is common in social interactions, especially among family and close friends. Saying "心配しないで" (don't worry) is a way to show consideration for others. This care for the feelings of others is connected to the cultural value of 気遣い (kidzukai), which means attentiveness to the needs of others.

In formal situations, such as at work, 心配 can be used in a more restrained manner. Phrases like "ご心配をおかけして申し訳ありません" (I apologize for causing worry) are common in professional emails. The word also frequently appears in news, especially when discussing natural disasters or public health crises.

Tips for memorizing 心配

An effective way to memorize 心配 is to associate it with real situations. Think of moments when you felt worried and try to use the word mentally. Another tip is to create flashcards with sentences like "大丈夫？心配だよ" (Is everything okay? I'm worried).

Additionally, listening to music or watching Japanese dramas can help. The word frequently appears in lyrics by artists such as Hikaru Utada and in series like "Terrace House." The more you hear it in natural contexts, the easier it will be to remember its meaning and usage.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 不安 (Fuan) - Anxiety, concern about unwanted events.
• 憂慮 (Yūryo) - Deep concern, often related to fears or insecurities.
• 気掛かり (Kigakari) - Light concern, something that is on the mind but not in an intense way.
• 心配り (Shinpai) - Care or attention dedicated to the concern for others.

心配

Romaji: shinpai
Kana: しんぱい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n3

Translation / Meaning: concern; Restlessness; anxiety; attention

Meaning in English: worry;concern;anxiety;care

Definition: The feeling you have when something goes wrong or a problem arises.

Example Sentences - (心配) shinpai

See below some example sentences:

下降する経済は心配です。

Koukou suru keizai wa shinpai desu

I am worried about the declining economy.

I am worried about the declining economy.

• 下降する - verb that means "to fall," "to decrease," "to diminish"
• 経済 - noun that means "economy"
• は - particle that marks the topic of the sentence, indicating that what follows is the main subject
• 心配 - noun that means "concern," "anxiety"
• です - verb that indicates the polite and formal form of the present tense of the verb "to be" or "to stay"

心配しないでください。

Shinpai shinaide kudasai

Don't worry.

please, do not worry.

• 心配 - It means "preoccupation" or "anxiety".
• しないで - The negative form of the verb "fazer" in Japanese.
• ください - It is a polite way to ask for something in Japanese, equivalent to "please".

経済の低下が心配です。

Keizai no teika ga shinpai desu

I'm worried about the downturn in the economy.

I am concerned about the downturn in the economy.

• 経済 - economy
• の - Possessive particle
• 低下 - decline, fall
• が - subject particle
• 心配 - WORRY
• です - Verb to be/estar in the present