Translation and Meaning of: 性質 - seishitsu

The Japanese word 性質[せいしつ] is a fascinating term that carries important nuances for those studying the language or interested in Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday life, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively. If you have encountered this expression in texts, animes, or conversations, understanding its context can greatly enrich your vocabulary.

性質 [せいしつ] is often translated as "nature" or "characteristic," but its use goes beyond these simple definitions. It appears in discussions about personality, properties of materials, and even in philosophical contexts. Here, we will unravel how this word is perceived by the Japanese and how you can apply it correctly. Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides practical examples to facilitate your learning.

Meaning and usage of 性質[せいしつ]

The term 性質[せいしつ] is composed of the kanji 性 (nature, essence) and 質 (quality, substance), forming the idea of "intrinsic characteristic." It can describe both personality traits and physical properties, such as the strength of a material or the behavior of an animal. For example, saying that someone has a 性質 calm indicates a natural tendency, not just a temporary state.

In daily life, the Japanese use this word in various contexts, from casual conversations to technical texts. A teacher might explain the 性質 of a chemical element, while a friend might comment on another person's 性質 of being optimistic. This versatility makes the term essential for anyone who wants to communicate precisely in Japanese.

Origin and components of kanjis

The etymology of 性質 dates back to classical Chinese, where the kanjis 性 and 質 were already used to convey ideas of essence and quality. The first kanji, 性, is connected to the concept of innate nature, while 質 reinforces the notion of substance or attribute. Together, they form a word that reflects fundamental characteristics, whether human or material.

It is worth noting that 性 also appears in terms such as 性格 (seikaku - personality) and 理性 (risei - reason), showing its connection to deep traits. On the other hand, 質 is found in words like 物質 (bussitsu - matter) and 品質 (hinshitsu - product quality). Understanding these components helps to memorize 性質 (seishitsu) and recognize it in other contexts, thereby expanding your vocabulary in an organic way.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

An effective way to reinforce 性質[せいしつ] is to associate it with concrete examples. Think of objects or people with striking characteristics: "Cotton has an 性質 of absorbency" or "She has a 性質 of patience." Repeating sentences like these out loud or writing them down on flashcards can speed up your learning, especially if you use methods like Anki for review.

Another tip is to pay attention to the use of the word in animes, dramas, or Japanese articles. Often, 性質 appears in dialogues about science, human relationships, or even in character descriptions. By becoming familiar with these contexts, you naturally absorb not only the meaning but also the sound and practical application of the term.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 特性 (tokusei) - Specific characteristics of something.
• 特質 (tokushitsu) - Particular quality or essential characteristic.
• 品性 (hinsei) - Nature or moral and ethical character.
• 性格 (seikaku) - Usual characteristics of a person; personality.
• 性質 (seishitsu) - Nature or intrinsic quality of something.
• 性格的 (seikakuteki) - Related to personality or character traits.
• 性向 (seikou) - Inclination or tendency of character.
• 性格傾向 (seikaku keikou) - Trends or inclinations of personality.
• 性格特徴 (seikaku tokuchou) - Distinctive characteristics of personality.
• 性格的特徴 (seikakuteki tokuchou) - Specific characteristics related to personality.
• 性格的素質 (seikakuteki sositsu) - Inherent qualities of personality.
• 性格的能力 (seikakuteki nouryoku) - Skills or abilities related to personality.
• 性格的特性 (seikakuteki tokusei) - Unique personality traits.
• 性格的個性 (seikakuteki kosei) - Particularities of personality.

性質

Romaji: seishitsu
Kana: せいしつ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: nature; property; disposition

Meaning in English: nature;property;disposition

Definition: The unique characteristics and attributes that things possess.

Example Sentences - (性質) seishitsu

See below some example sentences:

性質は人それぞれです。

Seishitsu wa hito sorezore desu

The properties are different for each person.

• 性質 (seishitsu) - nature, character
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 人 (hito) - person
• それぞれ (sorezore) - Each one, individually
• です (desu) - verb "to be"

物質は化学的な性質を持っています。

Bussitsu wa kagakuteki na seishitsu o motte imasu

Materials have chemical properties.

The materials have a chemical nature.

• 物質 - means "matter" in Japanese.
• は - topic particle in Japanese, used to indicate the subject of the sentence.
• 化学的な - compound adjective formed by the words "化学" (chemistry) and "的" (suffix indicating that something is related to something). It means "chemical".
• 性質 - means "property" in Japanese.
• を - object particle in Japanese, used to indicate the direct object of the sentence.
• 持っています - verb "持つ" (to have) conjugated in the polite and present form. It means "have".