Translation and Meaning of: 敏感 - binkan

The Japanese word 「敏感」 (binkan) is often used to describe a quality of sensitivity or susceptibility to stimuli. This sensitivity can manifest both physically and emotionally, depending on the context in which the expression is used. In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to perceive and respond sensitively to different situations has become a highly valuable skill.

The etymology of 「敏感」 traces back to the combination of two kanji characters: 「敏」 (bin) and 「感」 (kan). The kanji 「敏」 carries the meaning of "agile" or "perceptive." Meanwhile, the kanji 「感」 refers to "feelings" or "impressions," denoting the internal and emotional perception of the individual. Thus, the union of these characters suggests the idea of an agile perception attuned to feelings and impressions, which is essentially what sensitivity represents.

Additionally, "敏感" (binkan) is a word that can be used in various contexts, encompassing different levels of sensitivity. For example, someone can be described as "敏感" if they have skin that reacts quickly to chemicals or allergens. In the emotional realm, a person known for being emotionally receptive or empathetic is also often characterized by this word. This adaptability of the expression demonstrates its breadth and relevance in various everyday situations.

It is interesting to observe how sensitivity, although often seen as a vulnerability, is increasingly recognized as a strength. Sensitive individuals can perceive nuances that are not apparent to others, allowing them to navigate social interactions in a more harmonious and understanding way. Given its origin and varied applications, 「敏感」 highlights the importance of being attentive to both external subtleties and emotional introspection.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 神経質 (Shinkeishitsu) - Excessively sensitive or nervous, prone to worrying about details.
• 繊細 (Sensai) - Delicate, with an aesthetic or emotional sensitivity, especially in reactions or perceptions.
• 敏鋭 (Binei) - Acute, insightful; refers to a sharpened ability to perceive or understand quickly.
• 敏感性の高い (Binkansei no takai) - High sensitivity, particularly regarding emotional or physical stimuli.
• 感受性が強い (Kanjusei ga tsuyoi) - Strong perception skills, especially in responding to emotions and environments.

敏感

Romaji: binkan
Kana: びんかん
Type: Noun, adjective
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: sensitivity; susceptibility; sensitive (a); well in tune with

Meaning in English: sensibility;susceptibility;sensitive (to);well attuned to

Definition: React quickly to changes in emotions and environment.

Example Sentences - (敏感) binkan

See below some example sentences:

私の肌はとても敏感です。

Watashi no hada wa totemo binkan desu

My skin is very sensitive.

• 私 - The personal pronoun that means "I" in Japanese.
• の - particle that indicates possession or belonging
• 肌 - noun meaning "skin" in Japanese
• は - Particle indicating the topic of the sentence
• とても - adverb meaning "very" in Japanese
• 敏感 - adjective meaning "sensitive" in Japanese
• です - verb "to be" in polite form in Japanese