Translation and Meaning of: 短気 - tanki

If you've ever heard someone describe a person as "短気[たんき]", you might have been curious about what this word really means in Japanese. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japan. Additionally, we will see how this characteristic is viewed culturally and tips for memorizing its correct usage. Whether you are learning Japanese or just have an interest in the language, this guide from Suki Nihongo will help you understand everything about 短気.

The meaning and origin of 短気

短気 is composed of two kanji: 短 (tan), which means "short," and 気 (ki), which can be translated as "spirit" or "disposition." Together, they form a word that describes someone with a "short fuse" — that is, a person who is impatient and easily irritated. This combination of ideograms reflects the concept well, as it suggests an emotional disposition that does not last long before it explodes.

The origin of the word dates back to the Edo period, when terms related to human temperament gained popularity. Unlike momentary anger, 短気 implies a constant tendency towards impatience. It is worth noting that, although the kanji 気 is widely used in other emotion-related words, such as 元気 (genki), in 短気 it carries a more specific sense of "impetuousness".

Cultural use and perception in Japan

In Japan, being 短気 is not seen as a positive quality. Japanese culture values patience and self-control, especially in social interactions. A person considered 短気 may be judged as difficult to deal with, especially in work environments or in groups. In contrast, terms like 我慢 (gaman), which means "perseverance," are more valued.

Curiously, in some contexts, impatience can be interpreted as rudeness. For example, interrupting someone or showing irritation in public are behaviors associated with 短気. This explains why the word often appears in advice on etiquette or in discussions about interpersonal relationships in Japan.

How to memorize and use 短気 correctly

An effective way to remember the meaning of 短気 is to associate the kanjis with the idea of something that "lasts short." The 短 (short) + 気 (disposition) form a "short disposition" — perfect for describing someone who loses their temper quickly. This visual logic helps to solidify the term, especially for Japanese learners.

When using the word, it's common to find it in sentences like 短気な人 (tanki na hito), which means "impatient person". Avoid confusing it with 怒りっぽい (okorippoi), which also indicates irritability but in a more casual tone. 短気 has a more descriptive weight and is less used in playful contexts.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• せっかち (sekkachi) - Impatient, someone who does not like to wait.
• いらいら (iraira) - Uneasiness, a feeling of being irritated or frustrated.
• そそっかしい (sosokkashii) - Destructive, someone who acts without considering the consequences.
• せわしない (sewashinai) - Busy, someone who is always occupied or in a hurry.
• すぐに腹を立てる (sugu ni hara o tateteru) - Get angry quickly, get irritated easily.
• 怒りっぽい (ikarippoi) - Someone who is prone to getting angry, moody.

短気

Romaji: tanki
Kana: たんき
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: quick temper

Meaning in English: quick temper

Definition: Grumpy gets angry easily.

Example Sentences - (短気) tanki

See below some example sentences:

短気は損気。

Tankedo wa sonki

Joy is worth it.

• 短気 - means "impatience" or "irritability".
• は - connection particle that indicates that what follows is an explanation or a consequence of what has been said previously.
• 損気 - means "loss" or "damage".
• . - indicates the end of the sentence.