Translation and Meaning of: 良識 - ryoushiki

The word 「良識」 (ryoushiki) is composed of two kanji: 「良」 (ryou), which means "good" or "virtuous," and 「識」 (shiki), which refers to "knowledge" or "interpretation." Together, these characters form the expression that can be translated as "common sense" or "sound judgment." This combination suggests the idea of healthy and thoughtful judgment, which is essential in various everyday situations.

Etymologically, the first character, 「良」, incorporates the idea of something desirable, often associated with intrinsic virtue and goodness. On the other hand, 「識」 derives from roots that denote understanding and recognition. The word is widely used in contexts that require discernment and balance, symbolizing the ability to differentiate right from wrong based on ethical and social principles.

Historically, the use of the expression 「良識」 dates back to ancient writings and philosophical texts, where it was used to distinguish between superficial discernment and a deeper, more thoughtful understanding of situations. In some cultures, there would be correlations with concepts of morality and ethics from Western thought, alluding to a practical wisdom that is not based solely on rules, but on a thoughtful interpretation of the social and cultural context.

Use and Relevance in Contemporary Culture

• Valued in academic and professional environments, where careful decisions are crucial.
• Valued in ethical and moral discussions, indicating logical and well-founded judgment.
• Applied in personal contexts, such as relationships and conflict management, where common sense becomes essential for harmony.

Thus, the term 「良識」 transcends the simple notion of knowledge, positioning itself as a desirable quality that is closely linked to practical wisdom and moral discernment. It is the manifestation of human understanding that seeks to harmonize ideas, actions, and consequences, reflecting a balance between emotion and reason.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 良心 (Ryoushin) - Consciousness, moral sense.
• 良知 (Ryouchi) - Moral knowledge, ethical wisdom.
• 良識心 (Ryoushikishin) - Capacity for ethical judgment, moral discernment.
• 良識力 (Ryoushikiriki) - Ability to distinguish right from wrong, clarity of judgment.

良識

Romaji: ryoushiki
Kana: りょうしき
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Common sense

Meaning in English: good sense

Definition: Consciousness and thoughts aligned with common sense and morality.

Example Sentences - (良識) ryoushiki

See below some example sentences:

良識を持って行動することが大切です。

Ryoushiki wo motte koudou suru koto ga taisetsu desu

It is important to act with common sense.

• 良識 - means "common sense" or "correct judgment".
• を - direct object particle in Japanese.
• 持って - form of the verb 持つ (motsu) that means "to have" or "to possess".
• 行動する - means "to act" or "to behave".
• こと - abstract noun that indicates "thing" or "action".
• が - subject particle in Japanese.
• 大切 - It means "important" or "valuable".
• です - polite form of the verb to be in Japanese.