Translation and Meaning of: 動揺 - douyou

The word 「動揺」 (douyou) is composed of two kanji: 「動」 (dou) and 「揺」 (you). The kanji 「動」 means "movement" or "action," while 「揺」 is associated with "sway," "disturbance," or "oscillation." When combined, they form a term that denotes a state of agitation or emotional disturbance, often used to describe feelings of uncertainty or destabilization.

The etymology of 「動揺」 dates back to the use of the two kanji in ancient literary and philosophical contexts, where they were often used to describe the movements of nature and the human heart. 「動」 by itself symbolizes change and dynamism, while 「揺」 can be seen as a softer and oscillating movement, perhaps evoking images of leaves in the wind or oscillating feelings that a person may experience in moments of doubt or anxiety.

In everyday use, 「動揺」 can refer to a wide range of situations, from slight discomfort to deep emotional upheaval. It is common to hear people describe themselves as being in a state of 「動揺」 during unexpected events or in stressful situations. This word can be used in both personal and professional contexts, indicating the versatility of the term in the Japanese language.

Moreover, "動揺" is also a popular theme in Japanese literature and music, where it is often used to explore the nuances of the human condition. Artists and authors often capture the essence of "動揺" to illustrate moments of transformation or personal growth in their works, highlighting how inner turmoil can be both a challenge and an opportunity for self-discovery. Thus, the word encapsulates a fundamental aspect of the human experience of facing and overcoming uncertainties.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 不安 (Fuan) - Restlessness, anxiety.
• 不穏 (Fuon) - Unrest, unstable environment.
• 不定 (Futei) - Inconstancy, lack of stability.
• 不確定 (Fukakutei) - Indecision, uncertainty.
• 不安定 (Fuantei) - Instability, lack of security.
• 揺れ動き (Yuredoki) - Oscillation, oscillating motion.
• 揺らぎ (Yuragi) - Fluctuation, inconsistency.
• 波乱 (Haran) - Agitation, turbulence.
• 激動 (Gekidou) - Intense transformation, agitation.
• 動乱 (Douran) - Disorder, social upheaval.
• 不安定さ (Fuanteisa) - Characteristic of instability; quality of being insecure.

動揺

Romaji: douyou
Kana: どうよう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: disturb; agitation; tremor; tremor; pitch; bearing; oscillation; agitation; excitement; commotion

Meaning in English: disturbance;unrest;shaking;trembling;pitching;rolling;oscillation;agitation;excitement;commotion

Definition: A disturbed and restless state of mind.

Example Sentences - (動揺) douyou

See below some example sentences:

彼女は動揺していた。

Kanojo wa dōyō shite ita

She was agitated.

She was upset.

• 彼女 (kanojo) - she
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 動揺していた (douyoushiteita) - was agitated