Translation and Meaning of: 善良 - zenryou

The Japanese word 善良[ぜんりょう] is a term that carries a deep and positive meaning, often associated with admirable human qualities. If you are looking to better understand what this word represents, how it is used in everyday Japanese, or even how to memorize it, this article will help you. We will explore from the meaning and origin to the cultural context in which 善良 fits, all in a clear and direct manner.

In addition to uncovering what 善良 literally means, we will also see how the Japanese perceive this word in daily life. Is it common in conversations? Is there any special usage in animes or proverbs? These are some of the questions we will answer next, always based on reliable sources and precise information. If you want to truly learn Japanese, understanding words like this is essential – and Suki Nihongo is here to guide you on this journey.

Meaning and translation of 善良

In its most basic form, 善良[ぜんりょう] can be translated as "kindness" or "virtue." The word is composed of two kanjis: 善 (zen), which means "good" or "virtuous," and 良 (ryou), which also carries the sense of "good" or "excellent." Together, they reinforce the idea of a high moral quality, someone who acts with integrity and righteousness.

Unlike some words that may have more subjective nuances, 善良 is often used to describe people or actions that demonstrate genuinely good character. For example, when a Japanese person says that someone is 善良な人 (zenryou na hito), they are praising that person for their kind and trustworthy nature. It’s not just about being polite, but having an admirable moral essence.

Origin and cultural use of 善良

The origin of 善良 dates back to classical Chinese, where the kanjis 善 and 良 were already used to convey concepts of morality and excellence. In Japan, the word was incorporated into the vocabulary with significant weight, often linked to Confucian values that have influenced Japanese society over the centuries. This historical context helps explain why 善良 is not just a word, but a reflection of cultural ideals.

In modern Japan, 善良 is a word that appears in both formal and informal contexts, although it is not as common as simpler terms like 優しい (yasashii – gentle). You can find it in speeches, articles about ethics, or even in character descriptions in dramas and books. Interestingly, it is rarely used in an ironic or negative way – when someone is called 善良, it is a sincere compliment.

How to memorize and use 善良 correctly

If you want to incorporate 善良 into your Japanese vocabulary, one tip is to associate the kanjis with mental images. For example, 善 (zen) appears in words like 善意 (zen'i – good intention), while 良 (ryou) is part of 良い (ii – good). This connection can help anchor the meaning. Another strategy is to practice with simple sentences like "彼は善良な人です" (Kare wa zenryou na hito desu – He is a kind person).

It's worth noting that 善良 is not a word that Japanese people use casually all the time. It has a more formal tone and is more common in discussions about character or ethics. If you are learning Japanese, you might start with simpler terms like 優しい before moving on to 善良. However, knowing this word will certainly enrich your understanding of the language and Japanese culture.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 優しい (Yasashii) - Kind, friendly
• 親切 (Shinsetsu) - Attentive, helpful
• 思いやりのある (Omoiyari no aru) - Considerate, attentive (refers to empathy)
• 素直 (Sunao) - Frankly, honestly, without malice
• 温和 (Onwa) - Calm, kind, gentle
• 穏やか (Odayaka) - Calm, serene, peaceful
• 心優しい (Kokoro Yasashii) - Gentle heart, kind
• 仁愛のある (Jin'ai no aru) - Benevolent love, charitable
• 優美 (Yubi) - Elegant, graceful
• 慈愛のある (Jiai no aru) - Loving, affectionate

善良

Romaji: zenryou
Kana: ぜんりょう
Type: Noun, adjective
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: kindness; excellence; virtue

Meaning in English: goodness;excellence;virtue

Definition: Treating others with consideration and kindness.

Example Sentences - (善良) zenryou

See below some example sentences:

善良な人は尊敬される。

Zenryō na hito wa sonchō sareru

Good and kind people are respected.

Good people are respected.

• 善良な人 - kind person
• は - Topic particle
• 尊敬される - is respected