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B1 adjective 9 دقيقة للقراءة

繊細な

sensai na
أمثلة 繊細な في 30 ثانية
الشرح 繊細な in your Level:
At the A1 level, you don't need to use 'sensai' very often, but you might hear it. Think of it as a special word for 'very pretty and small' or 'very kind and careful.' In Japanese, we have simple words like 'chiisai' (small) or 'kirei' (pretty). 'Sensai' is like a combination of those but for things that are very detailed. For example, a small piece of jewelry or a very quiet, beautiful song can be 'sensai.' When you see something that looks like it took a long time to make because it has so many tiny parts, you can say 'Sensai desu ne!' (It's delicate, isn't it!). At this level, focus on the physical meaning: things that are thin, fine, and beautiful. Don't worry about using it for people's feelings yet; just use it for objects like lace, thin glass, or beautiful drawings. It's a 'level up' word that will make you sound very polite and observant of beauty.
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At the A2 level, you can start using 'sensai' to describe objects and simple feelings. You already know words like 'yasashii' (kind) and 'yowai' (weak). 'Sensai' fits in between. It describes someone who is sensitive—not just kind, but someone who notices things easily. For example, if a friend always knows when you are sad without you saying anything, they might be 'sensai.' You can also use it for food. If a dish has a very light, elegant taste that isn't just 'salty' or 'sweet,' you can call it a 'sensai na aji' (a delicate taste). In your studies, you will see 'sensai' used as a na-adjective. This means you say 'sensai na [noun]' (a delicate [noun]) or '[noun] wa sensai desu' (the [noun] is delicate). It's a great word to use when 'kirei' (pretty) isn't enough to describe how detailed something is.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
At the B1 level, you should be able to distinguish 'sensai' from similar words like 'bin'kan' (sensitive/reactive) and 'shinkei-shitsu' (nervous/fussy). 'Sensai' is the word for a 'delicate touch.' It is frequently used in the context of Japanese culture and aesthetics. You will encounter it in descriptions of traditional arts like 'Ukiyo-e' or 'Bonsai.' At this level, you should also understand its psychological application. The term 'Sensai-san' (Highly Sensitive Person) is very common in modern Japanese society. A B1 learner should be able to use 'sensai' to describe complex situations, such as 'sensai na mondai' (a delicate issue/problem). This implies that the problem is not just 'difficult' (muzukashii) but requires careful, nuanced handling to avoid hurting people's feelings or causing a diplomatic error. It's a key word for discussing emotions and art in a more mature way.
At the B2 level, you are expected to use 'sensai' with its full range of nuances, including its abstract and metaphorical meanings. You should understand how it relates to the Japanese concept of 'monono aware' (the pathos of things)—an appreciation of the ephemeral and delicate beauty of life. You can use 'sensai' to describe the 'subtle' differences in synonyms or the 'fine' nuances of a literary text. For example, 'sensai na hyōgen' (delicate expression) refers to writing or acting that captures small, subtle changes in emotion. You should also be comfortable using it in professional contexts. For instance, describing a 'sensai na baransu' (delicate balance) in a business negotiation or a market economy. At this level, you should be able to explain *why* something is 'sensai'—is it because of the physical craftsmanship, the emotional depth, or the complexity of the situation?
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
At the C1 level, 'sensai' becomes a tool for sophisticated critique and analysis. You should be able to use it to discuss the 'sensai na kōzō' (delicate structure) of a philosophical argument or the 'sensai na gihō' (exquisite technique) of a master craftsman. You will encounter this word in high-level literature (like the works of Yukio Mishima or Yasunari Kawabata) to describe the fragile boundary between life and death, or the intricate web of human relationships. A C1 learner should also be aware of the word's etymology (繊 = slender, 細 = thin) and how this physical 'thinness' translates into the psychological 'thinness' of a person's emotional skin. You should be able to use the word to contrast with 'daitan' (bold) or 'so-nai' (coarse/rough), discussing how a work of art balances 'sensai' details with a 'daitan' overall composition.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
At the C2 level, 'sensai' is part of your instinctive vocabulary for expressing the highest levels of refinement. You can use it to engage in deep cultural discourse, such as the evolution of 'sensai' as a value in Japanese post-war identity. You understand its role in 'omotenashi' (Japanese hospitality), where the 'sensai na kizukai' (delicate consideration/anticipation of needs) is the ultimate goal. You can perceive and describe the 'sensai na henka' (minute changes) in the seasons, the atmosphere of a room, or the shifting political landscape. At this level, the word is no longer just an adjective; it's a lens through which you can interpret and articulate the complexities of the Japanese worldview. You can use it fluently in academic writing, literary criticism, or high-stakes diplomacy where the choice of a single word can change the entire tone of a conversation.
سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل
أمثلة

繊細な في 30 ثانية

  • A na-adjective meaning delicate, sensitive, or subtle.
  • Used for fine craftsmanship, subtle flavors, and sensitive personalities.
  • Commonly associated with Japanese aesthetics and the 'HSP' (Highly Sensitive Person) concept.
  • Requires careful handling, both physically and emotionally.

The Japanese word 繊細な (sensai-na) is a multifaceted na-adjective that English speakers often translate as 'delicate,' 'sensitive,' or 'subtle.' However, its usage in Japanese carries specific cultural and emotional weight that goes beyond a simple dictionary definition. At its core, the word is composed of two kanji: 繊 (sen), meaning slender or fine, and 細 (sai), meaning thin or detailed. Together, they evoke an image of something so fine and intricate that it requires careful handling or high-level perception to appreciate. This word is a pillar of Japanese aesthetics and interpersonal psychology, appearing in contexts ranging from the craftsmanship of a traditional tea bowl to the complex emotional landscape of a person's heart.

Physical Objects and Craftsmanship
When describing physical objects, sensai refers to workmanship that is incredibly fine, detailed, and often fragile. It is the perfect word for lace patterns, the intricate carving on a wooden temple gate, or the thin, translucent walls of high-quality porcelain. It suggests a level of skill where the artisan has worked at a microscopic level of precision.
Human Personality and Emotions
Applied to people, sensai can be both a compliment and a cautionary description. A 繊細な人 (sensai-na hito) is someone with a sensitive soul—someone who notices small changes in others' moods, appreciates the beauty in small things, but may also be easily hurt by harsh words. In modern Japanese discourse, it is often linked to the concept of 'HSP' (Highly Sensitive Person).
Abstract Concepts and Flavors
In the culinary world or the arts, sensai describes flavors or nuances that are not overpowering. A 繊細な味 (sensai-na aji) is a subtle flavor where different ingredients are balanced perfectly without one dominant spice masking the others. It is the hallmark of traditional Kaiseki cuisine.

職人はそのガラスに繊細な彫刻を施した。 (The craftsman applied delicate engravings to the glass.)

彼女は非常に繊細な感覚の持ち主だ。 (She is the owner of a very sensitive sensibility.)

この和菓子は、色がとても繊細なグラデーションになっている。 (This Japanese sweet has a very subtle gradation of colors.)

政治的な繊細な問題なので、慎重に扱う必要がある。 (It is a delicate political issue, so it needs to be handled carefully.)

彼のピアノ演奏は、音の強弱が非常に繊細な表現だった。 (His piano performance featured very delicate expressions of dynamics.)

In summary, sensai is a word that celebrates the small and the quiet. Whether you are talking about the way light hits a silk kimono or the way a friend reacts to a subtle change in your tone of voice, this word captures the essence of Japanese attention to detail. It encourages the listener to slow down and notice the finer points of life that might otherwise be overlooked in a louder, coarser environment.

Mastering the use of 繊細な (sensai-na) requires understanding its three primary domains: the physical, the emotional, and the technical. Because it is a na-adjective, its grammatical application is straightforward, but the choice of nouns it modifies determines the nuance of the sentence. Let's explore how to integrate this word into your Japanese naturally across various contexts.

Describing People and Personalities
When you describe someone as sensai, you are saying they have a keen awareness of their surroundings and feelings. It is often used for artists, poets, or individuals who are easily moved. However, be aware that calling someone 'too sensai' (繊細すぎる) can imply they are oversensitive or fragile.
Artistic and Aesthetic Contexts
This is perhaps the most common usage. In art, music, or design, sensai describes the 'fine-ness' of the work. You might use it to describe the brushwork in a painting or the intricate melody of a flute. It suggests that the beauty lies in the details rather than a grand, bold statement.
Handling Fragile Situations
Beyond physical objects, sensai is used for situations that require a 'delicate touch.' This includes diplomatic negotiations, family disputes, or psychological counseling. A 繊細な問題 (sensai-na mondai) is a topic that could easily lead to misunderstanding or conflict if not handled with extreme care.

彼は繊細な心の持ち主で、他人の痛みを自分のことのように感じる。 (He has a delicate heart and feels others' pain as his own.)

このレースのカーテンには、非常に繊細な模様が編み込まれている。 (This lace curtain has a very delicate pattern woven into it.)

料理の盛り付けが繊細なので、食べるのがもったいないくらいだ。 (The food presentation is so delicate that it's almost a waste to eat it.)

この機械は繊細な調整が必要だ。 (This machine requires delicate adjustments.)

春の訪れを告げる繊細な光が窓から差し込んでいる。 (Subtle light announcing the arrival of spring is shining through the window.)

To use sensai effectively, think about the 'density' of the detail. If something has many small, fine parts—whether those are threads in a fabric or layers in a personality—sensai is the word to use. It honors the complexity of the subject without being overly technical.

The word 繊細な (sensai-na) is ubiquitous in Japanese media, literature, and daily conversation, especially when the topic turns to aesthetics or psychology. Understanding the environments where this word thrives will help you grasp its 'vibe' and use it more naturally.

Art Galleries and Museums
Walk into any exhibition of Japanese lacquerware, ink painting (suibokuga), or modern digital art, and you will hear visitors whispering 'Sensai da ne...' (It's so delicate, isn't it?). It is the standard way to express awe at the fine lines and careful execution of an artist's vision.
Psychology and Self-Help Books
In recent years, the term 繊細さん (Sensai-san) has become a popular buzzword in Japan. It refers to 'Highly Sensitive People' (HSPs). You will see books titled 'How for Sensai-san to live comfortably' in every major bookstore. This has shifted the word from a purely aesthetic term to a central part of modern identity politics in Japan.
High-End Dining
In food reviews or gourmet TV shows, sensai is used to praise the balance of flavors. If a chef uses a tiny amount of yuzu to highlight the sweetness of a fish without masking it, that is a sensai use of ingredients. It implies a sophisticated palate on the part of the chef and the diner.

「最近、自分も繊細さんかもしれないと思うようになった。」 (Lately, I've started thinking I might be a 'Sensai-san' [HSP] too.)

「このワインは香りがとても繊細ですね。」 (This wine has a very delicate aroma, doesn't it?)

「彼の筆致は驚くほど繊細だ。」 (His brushwork is surprisingly delicate.)

「子供の繊細な気持ちを傷つけないように気をつけた。」 (I was careful not to hurt the child's delicate feelings.)

「この映画は、思春期の繊細な心理をうまく描いている。」 (This movie skillfully depicts the delicate psychology of adolescence.)

Whether you are watching a drama about a tortured artist or reading a blog about the latest Michelin-star restaurant, sensai is the go-to adjective for anything that requires a high level of sensitivity to appreciate. It is a word that bridges the gap between the physical world of textures and the internal world of emotions.

While 繊細な (sensai-na) is a versatile word, English speakers often run into trouble by over-extending its meaning or confusing it with similar-sounding or similar-meaning words. Avoiding these pitfalls will make your Japanese sound much more natural and precise.

Confusing 'Sensai' with 'Yowai' (Weak)
A common mistake is using sensai to mean 'physically weak.' While a sensai object might be fragile, a sensai person is not necessarily physically weak. They are emotionally or perceptually sensitive. If someone has a weak constitution (gets sick easily), use 体が弱い (karada ga yowai), not sensai.
Sensai vs. Bin'kan (Sensitive)
As mentioned before, bin'kan is for reactions to stimuli (allergies, skin, hearing). You wouldn't say your skin is sensai—it’s 敏感肌 (bin'kan-hada). Use sensai for things that involve 'fineness' or 'intricacy.' A 'delicate situation' can be sensai, but 'sensitive skin' is bin'kan.
Misusing 'Sensai' for 'Small' (Chiisai)
Just because something is small doesn't mean it's sensai. A small rock is just chiisai. A small rock with intricate, tiny carvings on it is sensai. The word implies a level of detail or complexity, not just physical dimensions.

❌ 彼は体が繊細だから、すぐに風邪をひく。
✅ 彼は体が弱いから、すぐに風邪をひく。
(He is physically weak, so he catches colds easily.)

❌ 私は繊細肌です。
✅ 私は敏感肌です。
(I have sensitive skin.)

❌ この虫は繊細すぎて見えません。
✅ この虫は小さすぎて見えません。
(This bug is too small to see.)

To avoid mistakes, always ask yourself: 'Does this involve fine detail or deep emotional perception?' If the answer is yes, sensai is likely the right choice. If you just mean 'fragile' or 'reactive,' look for other adjectives.

Japanese has a rich vocabulary for describing nuances of sensitivity and detail. While 繊細な (sensai-na) is a great all-rounder, knowing its synonyms and how they differ will elevate your Japanese from functional to expressive.

緻密な (Chimitsu-na) — Precise / Minute
While sensai emphasizes beauty and fragility, chimitsu emphasizes logic and precision. A plan or a scientific observation is 緻密 (chimitsu). Use this for things that are 'tightly packed' with detail and accuracy.
巧妙な (Kōmyō-na) — Ingenious / Clever
If something is detailed because it is skillfully made to work well (like a clockwork mechanism or a clever trap), kōmyō is the word. It focuses on the 'cleverness' of the construction rather than the 'delicacy' of the appearance.
神経質な (Shinkei-shitsu-na) — Nervous / High-strung
This is the negative counterpart to sensai when describing people. Someone who is shinkei-shitsu worries about tiny details in a way that is annoying or stressful to themselves and others. It is often translated as 'fussy' or 'neurotic.'
デリケート (Derikēto) — Delicate (Loanword)
This English loanword is very common in Japanese. It is often used for 'delicate topics' (like health or money) or 'delicate skin.' It feels slightly more modern and less 'artistic' than sensai.

彼は繊細だが、神経質ではない。 (He is sensitive, but not fussy/neurotic.)

この計画は非常に緻密に練られている。 (This plan is very minutely/precisely thought out.)

Choosing the right alternative depends on what aspect of 'detail' or 'sensitivity' you want to highlight. Use sensai when you want to evoke a sense of wonder or empathy, and use the others when you need to be more clinical or critical.

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أمثلة حسب المستوى

1

これは繊細なレースです。

This is delicate lace.

繊細 (na-adj) + な + レース (noun).

2

その花はとても繊細だ。

That flower is very delicate.

Subject + は + 繊細 + だ (predicate).

3

繊細な絵ですね。

It's a delicate drawing, isn't it?

Using 'ne' to seek agreement.

4

このグラスは繊細だから気をつけて。

This glass is delicate, so be careful.

繊細 + だから (because).

5

繊細な色が好きです。

I like delicate colors.

Modifying the noun 'iro' (color).

6

彼は繊細な子供でした。

He was a sensitive child.

Past tense 'deshita'.

7

繊細な音が聞こえます。

I can hear a delicate sound.

Modifying 'oto' (sound).

8

この和菓子は繊細な形をしています。

This Japanese sweet has a delicate shape.

[Noun] + o shite iru (has the appearance of).

1

彼女は心が繊細な人です。

She is a person with a delicate heart.

心が繊細 (heart is delicate) modifying 'hito' (person).

2

この料理は繊細な味がします。

This dish has a delicate taste.

味がする (to have a taste).

3

繊細なデザインの指輪を買いました。

I bought a ring with a delicate design.

Modifying 'dezain' (design).

4

赤ちゃんの指はとても繊細だ。

A baby's fingers are very delicate.

Describing physical fragility and beauty.

5

繊細な作業は得意ではありません。

I am not good at delicate work.

得意ではない (not good at).

6

このカメラは繊細なので、落とさないでください。

This camera is delicate, so please don't drop it.

Te-form for prohibition (naide kudasai).

7

繊細な光が森に差し込んでいる。

Delicate light is shining into the forest.

Describing natural phenomena.

8

彼は繊細な性格をしている。

He has a sensitive personality.

性格をしている (has a personality).

1

それは非常に繊細な問題なので、今は話せません。

That is a very delicate issue, so I can't talk about it now.

Using 'sensai' for abstract situations.

2

彫刻家は繊細な手つきで木を削った。

The sculptor carved the wood with delicate hand movements.

Adverbial use: 繊細な + noun (tetsuki).

3

この映画は、若者の繊細な心理を表現している。

This movie expresses the delicate psychology of youth.

Psychological nuance.

4

繊細なバランスを保つことが大切です。

It is important to maintain a delicate balance.

保つ (tamotsu - to maintain).

5

彼の演奏は、繊細かつ力強い。

His performance is both delicate and powerful.

A katsu B (A and B / both A and B).

6

繊細な糸で織られた美しい布。

Beautiful cloth woven with delicate threads.

Passive verb 'orareru' (to be woven).

7

彼女の繊細な気配りに感謝しています。

I am grateful for her delicate consideration.

Kizukai (consideration/attentiveness).

8

この機械の修理には繊細な感覚が必要だ。

Repairing this machine requires a delicate touch (sense).

Sensory/perceptual requirement.

1

政治家は、繊細な外交交渉を強いられた。

The politician was forced into delicate diplomatic negotiations.

Passive voice 'shiirareta' (was forced).

2

この作品は、光と影の繊細なコントラストが魅力だ。

The charm of this work lies in the delicate contrast between light and shadow.

Chyūmoku (attraction/charm).

3

彼は繊細すぎて、都会の生活に馴染めなかった。

He was too sensitive and couldn't get used to city life.

Sensai + sugiru (too much).

4

職人の繊細な技が、伝統を守っている。

The delicate skills of the craftsmen are preserving tradition.

Mamoru (to protect/preserve).

5

科学者は繊細な変化を見逃さなかった。

The scientist did not overlook the delicate changes.

Minogasanai (to not overlook).

6

繊細なニュアンスの違いを理解するのは難しい。

It is difficult to understand the difference in delicate nuances.

Nuance (loanword).

7

この詩は、失恋の繊細な痛みを描いている。

This poem depicts the delicate pain of a broken heart.

Egaku (to depict/draw).

8

繊細な神経を持つ彼は、些細なことにも気づく。

Having sensitive nerves, he notices even the smallest things.

Motsu (to have/possess).

1

作者は、言葉の繊細な響きを大切にしている。

The author values the delicate resonance of words.

Hibiki (resonance/sound).

2

生態系は繊細な調和の上に成り立っている。

The ecosystem is built upon a delicate harmony.

Naritatsu (to consist of/be built on).

3

彼の論理は繊細かつ緻密で、反論の余地がない。

His logic is delicate yet minute, leaving no room for rebuttal.

Hanron no yochi (room for rebuttal).

4

その建築物は、繊細な装飾と大胆な構造が共存している。

The building features a coexistence of delicate decoration and bold structure.

Kyōzon (coexistence).

5

市場の繊細な動きを予測するのは不可能に近い。

Predicting the delicate movements of the market is nearly impossible.

Fukanō ni chikai (close to impossible).

6

彼女の繊細な感受性は、多くの読者を魅了した。

Her delicate sensitivity captivated many readers.

Kanjusei (sensitivity/receptivity).

7

繊細な筆致で描かれた雪景色は、静寂を感じさせる。

The snowscape drawn with delicate brushstrokes makes one feel the silence.

Hitchi (brushstrokes).

8

人間関係の繊細な糸を断ち切るのは容易だ。

It is easy to snap the delicate threads of human relationships.

Tachikiru (to cut off/sever).

1

王朝文学に見られる、繊細極まる情趣の世界。

The world of exceedingly delicate sentiments found in dynastic literature.

Kiwamaru (to reach the extreme).

2

生命の誕生という、繊細にして神秘的なプロセス。

The process of the birth of life—delicate and mysterious.

A ni shite B (A and also B).

3

彼の指揮は、オーケストラから繊細な色彩を引き出した。

His conducting drew delicate colors from the orchestra.

Hikidasu (to draw out).

4

現代社会における、個人の繊細な権利の保護。

The protection of the delicate rights of individuals in modern society.

Hogo (protection).

5

茶道において、繊細な所作は精神の現れとされる。

In tea ceremony, delicate movements are considered an expression of the spirit.

Shosa (movements/behavior).

6

その外交官は、繊細な機微を読み取る能力に長けていた。

The diplomat excelled in the ability to read delicate subtleties.

Kibi (subtleties/inner workings).

7

繊細な銀細工に、職人の魂が宿っている。

The craftsman's soul dwells in the delicate silverwork.

Yadoru (to dwell/reside).

8

言語という繊細な器に、思想を盛り込む。

To pour thoughts into the delicate vessel of language.

Utsuwa (vessel).

تلازمات شائعة

繊細な心
繊細な技術
繊細な味
繊細な模様
繊細な感覚
繊細なバランス
繊細な調整
繊細な表現
繊細な指先
繊細な色使い
سجّل مجاناً لرؤية جميع الأمثلة

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清香 Chino
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