Translation and Meaning of: 本能 - honnou

Etymology of 「本能」 (honnou)

The Japanese word 「本能」 is composed of two kanji: 「本」 (hon) and 「能」 (nou). The kanji 「本」 means "origin", "base", or "true", while 「能」 can be translated as "ability", "capacity", or "talent". Together, they convey the idea of an ability or drive that is inherent or natural, often known as "instinct". This concept of instinct traces back to the recognition of spontaneous and innate behaviors that are not learned but rather present from birth.

Definition of 「本能」

In the Japanese language, 「本能」 refers to an innate natural inclination or impulse, often associated with animal behavior, including humans. This term is used to describe actions or reactions that occur without the need for conscious reasoning. For example, the survival instinct is a common way to use this word, where individuals act to protect and preserve life without consciously thinking about their actions.

Origin and History of the Concept of Instinct

The concept of 「本能」 is not exclusive to Japanese culture; it is part of a long history of philosophical and scientific discussion across various cultures about what drives natural behaviors. The term "instinct" has been widely discussed by Western philosophers like Descartes, who differentiated innate actions from those acquired through learning. Similarly, in studies of Buddhism and Confucianism, there is an appreciation for understanding the innate aspects of human and animal nature, contributing to the formation of the Japanese concept of honnou.

In modern psychology and biology, the study of instincts continues to evolve, exploring how certain actions are genetically programmed and how instinct plays a fundamental role in ecology and evolution. This understanding adds a scientific layer to the term 「本能」, linking language to biology and human behavior.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 本性 (honsei) - Intrinsic nature of a being; fundamental essence.
• 本質 (honshitsu) - Essence or substance that defines something.
• 本能反応 (bunnōhannō) - Immediate instinctive reaction.
• 野生本能 (yaseihonnō) - Wild instinct; untamed natural impulse.
• 生存本能 (seizonhonnō) - Survival instinct; fundamental need to live.
• 繁殖本能 (hanshokuhonnō) - Reproductive instinct; drive for reproduction.
• 欲求本能 (yokkihonnō) - Instinct of desire; impulse for the satisfaction of needs.
• 動物本能 (dōbutsuhonnō) - Animal instincts; natural behaviors in animals.
• 本能的な (honnōteki na) - Relating to instincts; behavior that emerges spontaneously.
• 本能に従う (honnō ni shitagau) - Follow your instincts; act according to natural impulses.
• 本能的反応 (honnōteki hannō) - Instinctive reaction; automatic response to stimuli.

本能

Romaji: honnou
Kana: ほんのう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: instinto

Meaning in English: instinct

Definition: The basic motivations for emotions and actions we are born with.

Example Sentences - (本能) honnou

See below some example sentences:

本能に従って行動する。

Hon'nō ni shitagatte kōdō suru

Agindo de acordo com o instinto.

Aja de acordo com o instinto.

• 本能に - "instinto"
• 従って - "seguir"
• 行動する - "agir"

Tradução - "Agir seguindo o instinto".

獲物を追いかけるのは猟師の本能だ。

Kamimono wo oikakeru no wa ryoushi no honnou da

Chasing prey is the instinct of a hunter.

It is the hunter's instinct to stalk his prey.

• 獲物 (えもの) - presa
• を - object particle
• 追いかける (おいかける) - perseguir
• のは - particle that indicates the subject of the sentence
• 猟師 (りょうし) - caçador
• の - Possession particle
• 本能 (ほんのう) - instinto
• だ (だ) - verb to be in the present