At the A1 level, you can think of 'Gokinjo' as 'the area near my house.' You might use it to describe simple things, like 'There is a park in my neighborhood.' In Japanese, this is 'Gokinjo ni kouen ga arimasu.' It is a very useful word for basic self-introductions when you want to talk about where you live. At this stage, don't worry too much about the complex social rules. Just remember that 'Gokinjo' is a polite way to say 'nearby area.' You can use it with the particle 'no' to describe things: 'Gokinjo no inu' (a neighborhood dog). It is a noun, so it behaves just like 'ie' (house) or 'gakkou' (school) in a sentence. Focus on the physical aspect: the shops, the streets, and the small things you see every day when you step outside your door.
At the A2 level, you start to use 'Gokinjo' to talk about people and basic social interactions. You might say 'Gokinjo no hito wa shinsetsu desu' (The neighborhood people are kind). This shows you understand that 'Gokinjo' isn't just about buildings, but also about the community. You might also use it in the context of shopping or daily errands, such as 'Gokinjo no suupaa de kaimono o shimasu' (I shop at the neighborhood supermarket). You should start using the honorific 'Go' consistently, as it makes your Japanese sound more natural and polite. At this level, you are beginning to navigate daily life in Japan, and knowing how to refer to your immediate surroundings politely is a key skill. You can also use it to describe your routine: 'Gokinjo o sanpo shimasu' (I take a walk in the neighborhood).
At the B1 level, you should understand the social implications of 'Gokinjo.' This includes terms like 'Gokinjo-zukiai' (neighborhood relations). You can explain why it's important to be polite to neighbors, such as 'Gokinjo-zukiai wa taisetsu desu' (Neighborhood relations are important). You are expected to handle more complex sentences, like 'Gokinjo no me ga aru kara, gomi no dashi-kata ni wa ki o tsukete imasu' (I'm careful about how I put out the trash because of the neighborhood's eyes). This shows an understanding of 'sekentei' (public eye). You also start to distinguish 'Gokinjo' from synonyms like 'Kinrin' or 'Tonari.' You can participate in basic community discussions or understand notices from the local neighborhood association (Chonaikai) that use this word. Your usage should reflect an awareness of the balance between privacy and community participation.
At the B2 level, you can discuss the changing nature of the Japanese 'Gokinjo.' You might talk about 'Gokinjo-trouble' (neighborhood disputes) or the 'Gokinjo-zukiai no kika' (the weakening of neighborhood ties) in big cities. You can use the word in more abstract or metaphorical ways. For example, discussing how social media creates a 'digital Gokinjo.' You should be able to read news articles about local issues where 'Gokinjo' is used to describe the impact of a new development or a crime on the community. Your vocabulary should include compound words like 'Gokinjo-shiai' (neighborhood matches/competitions) or 'Gokinjo-ban' (neighborhood bulletin board). You understand the subtle difference between 'Gokinjo' and 'Kinrin' in legal vs. casual contexts and can choose the appropriate word based on the register of your conversation or writing.
At the C1 level, you have a deep grasp of the sociological and historical weight of 'Gokinjo.' You can discuss the evolution of the 'Edo-nagaya' (traditional tenement house) culture into the modern 'Gokinjo' and how this affects Japanese urban planning. You can use 'Gokinjo' in nuanced literary analysis or high-level business discussions regarding local community engagement (CSR). You understand the psychological pressure of the 'Gokinjo' in Japanese society—how it can be a safety net (mutual aid) but also a source of surveillance. You can articulate complex opinions on topics like 'Kodoku-shi' (lonely deaths) and how the breakdown of 'Gokinjo' networks contributes to social problems. Your use of the word is indistinguishable from a native speaker, incorporating idiomatic expressions and perfect register control, whether you are writing a formal report or having a deep philosophical conversation.
At the C2 level, 'Gokinjo' is a tool for sophisticated cultural commentary. You can analyze the linguistic shift from 'Gokinjo' to 'Kinrin' in official policy documents and what that says about the state of Japanese communalism. You can engage in high-level academic debates about the 'Chonaikai' system and its role in disaster management (Bosai) using 'Gokinjo' as a fundamental unit of analysis. You might explore the word's appearance in classical and modern literature to discuss the 'Japanese sense of space.' You are comfortable using the word in any context, including legal disputes, urban sociology papers, or avant-garde poetry. You understand the most obscure puns and cultural references related to the word, and you can explain the 'unspoken rules' of the Gokinjo to others with precision and cultural sensitivity. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item but a window into the Japanese soul.

ご近所 في 30 ثانية

  • Refers to both the physical neighborhood and the neighbors themselves.
  • Usually used with the honorific prefix 'go' for social politeness.
  • Key to understanding Japanese community social norms and obligations.
  • Commonly used in phrases about neighborhood relations and reputation.

The Japanese word ご近所 (Gokinjo) is a nuanced noun that transcends the simple English translation of 'neighborhood.' While it fundamentally refers to the immediate vicinity of one's residence, its usage is deeply intertwined with the social fabric of Japanese life. The term is composed of the honorific prefix ご (go), the kanji 近 (kin) meaning 'near,' and 所 (jo/tokoro) meaning 'place.' Together, they create a term that is both spatial and communal.

The Spatial Aspect
In a physical sense, 'Gokinjo' refers to the area within walking distance of your home. It includes the local convenience store, the small park around the corner, and the houses lining your street. However, unlike the more clinical term 'kinrin' (vicinity), 'Gokinjo' feels intimate and personal.
The Human Aspect
Crucially, 'Gokinjo' often refers to the *people* living in that area. When someone says 'Gokinjo-san,' they are referring to their neighbors as a collective group. This reflects the Japanese cultural emphasis on the 'sekentei' (public eye) and the importance of maintaining harmony within one's immediate social environment.

引越しの挨拶に、ご近所を回りました。
(I went around the neighborhood to give my moving-in greetings.)

In Japanese society, the neighborhood is often managed by a 'Chonaikai' (Neighborhood Association). These associations handle everything from trash collection rules to local festivals (matsuri). Therefore, when you use the word 'Gokinjo,' you are often invoking this complex system of mutual aid and shared responsibility. Whether you are discussing the latest gossip or organizing a local cleanup, 'Gokinjo' serves as the primary stage for your community life. It is the boundary between the private 'uchi' (inside/home) and the vast 'soto' (outside world).

Using ご近所 (Gokinjo) correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a noun and its typical collocations. It can function as the subject of a sentence, an object, or a modifier when paired with the particle 'no'.

As a Collective Noun
When referring to the neighbors as people, you often use 'Gokinjo-san' or simply 'Gokinjo' followed by a verb describing social interaction. For example, 'Gokinjo to nakayoku suru' (to get along with neighbors).
As a Location Modifier
Using 'Gokinjo no' allows you to specify something within the neighborhood. 'Gokinjo no kouen' (a neighborhood park) or 'Gokinjo no oishii panya-san' (a delicious bakery in the neighborhood).

ご近所の迷惑にならないように、静かにしてください。
(Please be quiet so as not to bother the neighbors.)

One of the most common contexts for 'Gokinjo' is the concept of 'Gokinjo-zukiai' (neighborhood relations). This encompasses the small talk (aisatsu) exchanged while taking out the trash or the occasional sharing of seasonal produce (o-susowake). In urban areas like Tokyo, 'Gokinjo-zukiai' might be minimal, whereas in rural areas, it is often deep and mandatory. Understanding this spectrum is key to using the word naturally.

この辺りはご近所付き合いがとても盛んです。
(Neighborhood relations are very active in this area.)

Finally, 'Gokinjo' is often used in the context of 'Gokinjo-trouble' (neighborhood disputes). This Katakana-heavy term refers to issues like noise complaints, trash disposal arguments, or boundary disputes. When discussing these sensitive topics, using the polite 'Gokinjo' helps maintain a level of social decorum even when the subject matter is unpleasant.

You will encounter ご近所 (Gokinjo) in various settings, ranging from mundane daily life to popular media. It is a staple of the 'Slice of Life' genre in anime and manga, where neighborhood dynamics often drive the plot.

Daily Interactions
When a new neighbor moves in, they often bring a small gift (like towels or detergent) and say, 'Gokinjo ni narimashita' (I have become your neighbor). This is the 'Hikkoshi-aisatsu' ritual.
Media and Pop Culture
Anime like 'Sazae-san' or 'Chibi Maruko-chan' are built entirely around 'Gokinjo' interactions. These shows depict a nostalgic version of Japan where everyone knows their neighbors and looks out for one another.

ご近所物語」という有名な漫画があります。
(There is a famous manga called 'Neighborhood Story.')

In news reports, you might hear 'Gokinjo' used when reporters interview residents about a local incident. Phrases like 'Gokinjo de wa hyouban no...' (well-reputed in the neighborhood...) are common when describing a local person or business. It establishes a sense of local credibility and shared knowledge.

ご近所の目があるから、あまり派手なことはできない。
(Because of the eyes of the neighborhood, I can't do anything too flashy.)

In literature, 'Gokinjo' often represents the suffocating nature of community expectations. Authors like Natsuo Kirino or Sayaka Murata frequently explore how 'Gokinjo' pressure can lead to social isolation or psychological tension. Thus, the word carries both a sense of warmth/safety and a sense of surveillance/restriction, depending on the context.

While ご近所 (Gokinjo) seems straightforward, English speakers often stumble on its specific nuances and social baggage. Here are the most frequent errors.

Confusing 'Gokinjo' with 'Tonari'
'Tonari' refers specifically to the person or house *right next door*. 'Gokinjo' is the broader area. If you say 'Gokinjo ga urusai' (The neighborhood is noisy), you are complaining about the whole area. If it's just the person next door, use 'Tonari no hito.'
Overusing 'Kinjo' without 'Go'
While 'Kinjo' is grammatically correct, using it in polite conversation can sound a bit cold or overly clinical. 'Gokinjo' adds a layer of social respect that is expected when discussing your community or other people's homes.

Incorrect: 近所さんは優しいです。
Correct: ご近所の方は優しいです。
(The people in the neighborhood are kind.)

Another mistake is using 'Gokinjo' when 'Jimoto' (hometown/local area) is more appropriate. 'Gokinjo' is very localized—usually within a 5-10 minute walk. 'Jimoto' refers to the town or city you are from or currently identify with. You wouldn't say 'Gokinjo no matsuri' if it's a city-wide festival; you would use 'Jimoto no matsuri.'

❌ 近所に帰る (Going back to the neighborhood - sounds like you're just returning home from a walk).
✅ 地元に帰る (Going back to my hometown).

Lastly, avoid using 'Gokinjo' to refer to a business district. It is primarily a residential term. If you are in Shinjuku surrounded by skyscrapers, you wouldn't call the area 'Gokinjo' unless you actually live in one of the few residential pockets there. For commercial areas, 'Kono hen' (this area) or 'Machi' (town/city) is better.

To truly master the concept of 'neighborhood' in Japanese, you must distinguish ご近所 (Gokinjo) from its synonyms. Each has a specific register and scope.

近隣 (Kinrin)
Meaning 'vicinity' or 'neighborhood,' this is a formal, often academic or legal term. You see it on signs like 'Kinrin juumin no kata e' (To the local residents) or in news reports about 'Kinrin-trouble.' It lacks the warmth of 'Gokinjo.'
付近 (Fukin)
Meaning 'nearby' or 'around,' this is purely geographical. 'Eki fukin' (near the station). It doesn't imply a community or the people living there, just physical proximity.
地元 (Jimoto)
Meaning 'local area' or 'hometown.' This has a strong sense of identity. 'Jimoto no hito' are people who grew up there or have deep roots. 'Gokinjo' is where you live now; 'Jimoto' is where you belong.
WordNuanceExample Context
GokinjoSocial/ResidentialGreeting neighbors
KinrinFormal/LegalConstruction notice
FukinGeographicalMap directions
TonariImmediateNext door noise

Then there is 界隈 (Kaiwai). This term is often used for specific districts or 'vibe' areas, like 'Shinjuku-kaiwai' (the Shinjuku area/scene). It’s more trendy and less about residential living. If you are talking about the community of artists in an area, 'kaiwai' is better. If you are talking about the people you share a trash collection point with, 'Gokinjo' is the only choice.

In summary, choose 'Gokinjo' when you want to sound polite, community-oriented, and focused on the everyday life of residents. Choose its alternatives when you need to be more precise about distance, formality, or regional identity.

How Formal Is It?

حقيقة ممتعة

The honorific 'Go' was added during the Edo period to show respect to the community and the 'Sekentei' (public eye).

دليل النطق

UK /ɡoʊ.kɪn.dʒoʊ/
US /ɡoʊ.kɪn.dʒoʊ/
Flat pitch (Heiban) in Japanese: go-kin-jo.
يتقافى مع
Shinjo (新庄) Honjo (本庄) Enjo (炎上) Tanjo (誕生) Kanjō (感情) Ginjō (吟醸) Hōnjō (奉納) Sanjō (参上)
أخطاء شائعة
  • Pronouncing 'jo' as 'cho'.
  • Over-emphasizing the 'n' sound.
  • Using a rising intonation like a question.
  • Dropping the 'u' sound at the end (though it is short, it should be clear).
  • Confusing the pitch accent with 'Kinjo' (which is also flat).

مستوى الصعوبة

القراءة 2/5

Kanji are common and learned early.

الكتابة 3/5

Kanji for 'Jo' (所) can be tricky to balance.

التحدث 2/5

Pronunciation is simple and flat.

الاستماع 1/5

Very common word in daily life and media.

ماذا تتعلّم بعد ذلك

المتطلبات الأساسية

家 (Ie) 近い (Chikai) 人 (Hito) 所 (Tokoro) 挨拶 (Aisatsu)

تعلّم لاحقاً

近隣 (Kinrin) 町内会 (Chonaikai) 世間体 (Sekentei) お裾分け (O-susowake) 迷惑 (Meiwaku)

متقدم

相互扶助 (Sougo-fujo) 限界集落 (Genkai-shuuraku) 都市計画 (Toshi-keikaku)

قواعد يجب معرفتها

Honorific Prefix 'Go/O'

ご近所、お名前、お手紙

Particle 'No' for Possession/Location

ご近所の公園

Existence Verbs 'Arimasu/Imasu'

ご近所に人がいます

Compound Nouns

ご近所付き合い

Polite Negative 'Ni naranai'

迷惑にならない

أمثلة حسب المستوى

1

ご近所に公園があります。

There is a park in the neighborhood.

Uses 'ni' to show location.

2

ご近所のスーパーは安いです。

The neighborhood supermarket is cheap.

Uses 'no' to modify the noun 'super'.

3

ご近所を散歩します。

I take a walk in the neighborhood.

Uses 'o' to show the area of movement.

4

ここは静かなご近所です。

This is a quiet neighborhood.

Adjective + noun structure.

5

ご近所の犬が吠えています。

A neighborhood dog is barking.

Possessive 'no'.

6

ご近所に友達が住んでいます。

A friend lives in the neighborhood.

Location + 'ni' + 'sunde imasu'.

7

ご近所のパン屋さんはおいしいです。

The neighborhood bakery is delicious.

Topic marker 'wa' with an adjective.

8

ご近所はどこですか?

Where is your neighborhood?

Simple question 'doko desu ka'.

1

ご近所の人に挨拶しました。

I greeted the people in the neighborhood.

Direct object of 'aisatsu'.

2

ご近所で火事がありました。

There was a fire in the neighborhood.

'De' indicates where an event happened.

3

ご近所の迷惑にならないようにしましょう。

Let's try not to be a nuisance to the neighbors.

'Meiwaku ni naru' (to be a nuisance).

4

新しいご近所さんに会いました。

I met a new neighbor.

Adding '-san' makes it refer to people.

5

ご近所でお祭りがあります。

There is a festival in the neighborhood.

'De' for event location.

6

ご近所の子供たちが遊んでいます。

The neighborhood children are playing.

Plural '-tachi'.

7

ご近所に新しいカフェができました。

A new cafe opened in the neighborhood.

'Dekimashita' (was made/opened).

8

ご近所のゴミ出しのルールを教えてください。

Please tell me the neighborhood's trash disposal rules.

Compound noun 'gomi-dashi'.

1

ご近所付き合いは大切だと思います。

I think neighborhood relations are important.

Compound noun 'Gokinjo-zukiai'.

2

ご近所の目が気になるので、庭をきれいにします。

I'm worried about what the neighbors think, so I'll clean the garden.

'Me ga ki ni naru' (to care about eyes/reputation).

3

ご近所からお裾分けをいただきました。

I received a gift of food from the neighbors.

'O-susowake' (sharing extra food).

4

ご近所トラブルを避けるために、防音対策をしました。

To avoid neighborhood trouble, I installed soundproofing.

'Gokinjo-trouble' is a common term.

5

ご近所の評判が良いレストランに行きました。

I went to a restaurant with a good reputation in the neighborhood.

'Hyouban ga ii' (well-reputed).

6

ご近所のネットワークを使って、迷子の子猫を探しました。

I used the neighborhood network to look for a lost kitten.

Use of loanword 'network'.

7

ご近所の皆さんと一緒に掃除をしました。

I cleaned up together with everyone in the neighborhood.

'Mina-san to issho ni'.

8

ご近所の変わりがないか、毎日確認しています。

I check every day to see if there are any changes in the neighborhood.

'Kawari ga nai ka' (if there are changes).

1

都市部ではご近所付き合いが希薄になっています。

In urban areas, neighborhood relations are becoming weaker.

'Kihaku' (thin/weak).

2

ご近所の騒音問題が解決せずに困っています。

I'm in trouble because the neighborhood noise problem hasn't been solved.

'Souon mondai' (noise problem).

3

ご近所一帯が停電になりました。

The whole neighborhood had a power outage.

'Ittai' (the whole area).

4

ご近所の防犯意識を高めるための会議が開かれました。

A meeting was held to raise crime prevention awareness in the neighborhood.

'Bouhan ishiki' (crime prevention awareness).

5

ご近所の手前、あまり夜遅くまでは働けません。

For the sake of appearances in the neighborhood, I can't work too late.

'Temae' (for the sake of appearances).

6

ご近所の空き家が増えているのが心配です。

I'm worried that the number of vacant houses in the neighborhood is increasing.

'Akiya' (vacant house).

7

ご近所の方々と協力して、防災訓練を行いました。

We cooperated with the neighborhood people to conduct a disaster drill.

'Kyouryoku shite' (cooperating).

8

ご近所の景観を守るために、看板の設置が制限されています。

To protect the neighborhood's scenery, the installation of signs is restricted.

'Keikan' (scenery/landscape).

1

ご近所というコミュニティが、かつての相互扶助機能を失いつつある。

The community known as 'Gokinjo' is losing its former mutual aid function.

Formal 'tsutsu aru' (in the process of).

2

ご近所トラブルがエスカレートし、民事訴訟に発展するケースも少なくない。

There are many cases where neighborhood troubles escalate into civil lawsuits.

'Sukunaku nai' (double negative for emphasis).

3

ご近所の目という「ソフトな監視」が、地域の治安維持に寄与している。

The 'soft surveillance' of the neighborhood's eyes contributes to maintaining local public safety.

'Kiyo shite iru' (contributing to).

4

ご近所付き合いの煩わしさを避けるために、タワーマンションを選ぶ層が増えている。

The number of people choosing high-rise apartments to avoid the hassles of neighborhood relations is increasing.

'Wazurawashisa' (hassle/annoyance).

5

震災時、ご近所同士の「共助」が多くの命を救ったことは記憶に新しい。

It is still fresh in our memories that 'mutual help' among neighbors saved many lives during the earthquake.

'Kyoujo' (cooperative help).

6

ご近所の境界線をめぐる争いは、古今東西を問わず存在する根深い問題だ。

Disputes over neighborhood boundaries are deep-rooted issues that exist regardless of time or place.

'Kokon-touzai o towazu' (regardless of time or place).

7

ご近所という概念が、SNSなどの仮想空間へと拡張されている。

The concept of 'Gokinjo' is being extended into virtual spaces like SNS.

'Kakuchou sarete iru' (is being expanded).

8

ご近所の多様性を認めることが、これからの多文化共生社会には不可欠である。

Recognizing neighborhood diversity is essential for a future multicultural society.

'Fukaketsu' (indispensable).

1

近世の長屋文化における「ご近所」は、血縁を超えた擬似的な家族共同体であった。

In the tenement culture of the early modern period, 'Gokinjo' was a pseudo-family community that transcended blood ties.

Academic 'Gijiteki' (pseudo/simulated).

2

都市化の進展に伴い、ご近所という空間的制約は、個人のアイデンティティ形成において影を潜めている。

With the progress of urbanization, the spatial constraints of the neighborhood are becoming less prominent in the formation of individual identity.

'Kage o hisomeru' (to disappear/fade away).

3

ご近所トラブルの根底には、都市生活におけるプライバシーの主張と共同体の論理の衝突がある。

At the root of neighborhood trouble lies a conflict between the assertion of privacy in urban life and the logic of the community.

Complex noun phrase structure.

4

限界集落化が進む地方では、ご近所という互助システムそのものが崩壊の危機に瀕している。

In rural areas where depopulation is progressing, the mutual aid system of the neighborhood itself is on the verge of collapse.

'Kiki ni hinshite iru' (on the verge of crisis).

5

「ご近所」という言葉が内包する排他性は、時として「村八分」のような陰惨な事態を招きかねない。

The exclusiveness inherent in the word 'Gokinjo' can sometimes lead to grim situations like 'Murahachibu' (social ostracism).

'Kanenai' (could possibly result in - negative).

6

ジェントリフィケーションによるご近所の変容は、地域固有の文化資本を毀損させる恐れがある。

The transformation of neighborhoods due to gentrification threatens to damage the region's unique cultural capital.

'Kison saseru' (to damage/deface).

7

ご近所というミクロな社会単位における合意形成は、民主主義の原点とも言える。

Consensus building in the micro-social unit of the neighborhood can be called the origin of democracy.

'Genten to mo ieru' (can be said to be the origin).

8

現代の孤独社会において、ご近所という緩やかな繋がりをいかに再構築するかが、喫緊の課題となっている。

In today's lonely society, how to reconstruct the loose connections of the neighborhood has become an urgent issue.

'Kikkin no kadai' (urgent issue).

تلازمات شائعة

ご近所付き合い
ご近所の目
ご近所トラブル
ご近所さん
ご近所の評判
ご近所一帯
ご近所回り
ご近所迷惑
ご近所物語
ご近所ネットワーク

العبارات الشائعة

ご近所になりまして

— Used when introducing yourself as a new neighbor.

今日からご近所になりまして、よろしくお願いします。

ご近所のよしみで

— Because we are neighbors (implying a favor or bond).

ご近所のよしみで、これを受け取ってください。

ご近所中

— The whole neighborhood.

ご近所中で噂になっている。

ご近所界隈

— The general neighborhood area.

ご近所界隈を散策する。

ご近所様

— Extremely polite way to refer to neighbors.

ご近所様にご迷惑をおかけしました。

ご近所価格

— A special 'neighborhood discount' (rare but exists).

ご近所価格で安くしてくれた。

ご近所付き合いを断つ

— To cut off relations with neighbors.

彼はご近所付き合いを断っている。

ご近所の顔役

— A local influential person or leader.

彼はこのご近所の顔役だ。

ご近所の足

— Local transportation/means of getting around.

自転車はご近所の足として便利だ。

ご近所の助け合い

— Neighborhood mutual aid.

災害時はご近所の助け合いが不可欠だ。

يُخلط عادةً مع

ご近所 vs 隣 (Tonari)

Tonari is only the house next door; Gokinjo is the whole area.

ご近所 vs 地元 (Jimoto)

Jimoto is your hometown; Gokinjo is your current neighborhood.

ご近所 vs 付近 (Fukin)

Fukin is just physical proximity; Gokinjo implies people and community.

تعبيرات اصطلاحية

"向こう三軒両隣"

— The three houses across the street and the houses on both sides; your immediate neighbors.

向こう三軒両隣には挨拶に行きましょう。

Traditional
"遠くの親類より近くの他人"

— A neighbor nearby is better than a relative far away.

困った時は、遠くの親類より近くの他人だね。

Proverb
"壁に耳あり障子に目あり"

— Walls have ears, shoji have eyes (be careful, neighbors are listening).

ご近所では噂が早いから、壁に耳ありだよ。

Warning
"井戸端会議"

— Well-side meeting; neighborhood gossip.

ご近所の奥さんたちが井戸端会議をしている。

Casual
"門前市を成す"

— To have many visitors (like a market at the gate).

あのご近所の家はいつも人が多くて、門前市を成している。

Literary
"袖振り合うも多生の縁"

— Even a chance encounter (like brushing sleeves) is karma; treat everyone well.

ご近所の縁も大切にしたい。

Philosophical
"隣の芝生は青い"

— The grass is always greener on the other side.

ご近所の生活が羨ましく見えるが、隣の芝生は青いだけだ。

Common
"郷に入っては郷に従え"

— When in Rome, do as the Romans do (follow neighborhood rules).

ご近所のルールは、郷に入っては郷に従えだ。

Instructional
"一蓮托生"

— Being in the same boat; sharing the same fate (often used for communities).

このご近所は一蓮托生だ。

Strong
"掃き溜めに鶴"

— A crane in a rubbish heap (someone remarkably beautiful/talented in a plain neighborhood).

彼女はこのご近所では掃き溜めに鶴のような存在だ。

Descriptive

سهل الخلط

ご近所 vs 近所 (Kinjo)

Dropping the 'Go'.

Kinjo is more clinical/casual; Gokinjo is the socially polite standard.

近所を歩く (Neutral) vs ご近所の皆様 (Polite)

ご近所 vs 近隣 (Kinrin)

Both mean neighborhood.

Kinrin is used for official notices or news; Gokinjo is for personal talk.

近隣トラブル (News) vs ご近所トラブル (Daily talk)

ご近所 vs 界隈 (Kaiwai)

Both mean 'area'.

Kaiwai is for districts (Shinjuku-kaiwai); Gokinjo is for where people live.

裏原宿界隈 (Trendy) vs 静かなご近所 (Residential)

ご近所 vs 周辺 (Shuupen)

Both mean 'around'.

Shuupen is formal and refers to the periphery of a specific object.

駅の周辺 (Station surroundings).

ご近所 vs 辺り (Atari)

Both mean 'vicinity'.

Atari is vague and casual, like 'this way' or 'around here'.

この辺り (This area).

أنماط الجُمل

A1

ご近所に [Noun] があります。

ご近所にスーパーがあります。

A2

ご近所の [Noun] は [Adjective] です。

ご近所の公園はきれいです。

B1

ご近所と [Verb-te] います。

ご近所と仲良くしています。

B2

ご近所の迷惑にならないように [Verb]。

ご近所の迷惑にならないように静かに歩く。

C1

ご近所という [Noun] において...

ご近所という共同体において役割を果たす。

C2

ご近所の変容が [Noun] を招く。

ご近所の変容が社会の孤立を招く。

B1

ご近所の評判では...

ご近所の評判では、あの店は最高だ。

A2

ご近所を [Verb-movement]。

ご近所を散歩しました。

عائلة الكلمة

الأسماء

近所 (Kinjo)
近所付き合い (Kinjo-zukiai)
近所迷惑 (Kinjo-meiwaku)
近所さん (Kinjo-san)

الأفعال

近づく (Chikazuku - to approach)
近寄る (Chikayoru - to come near)

الصفات

近い (Chikai - near)
近しい (Chikashii - intimate/close)

مرتبط

近隣 (Kinrin)
付近 (Fukin)
周辺 (Shuupen)
隣 (Tonari)
地元 (Jimoto)

كيفية الاستخدام

frequency

Extremely common in daily life, moderately common in literature.

أخطاء شائعة
  • Using 'Gokinjo' for 'hometown'. Jimoto (地元)

    Gokinjo is where you live now. Jimoto is where you are from.

  • Saying 'Kinjo-san' to a neighbor. Gokinjo-san (ご近所さん)

    Dropping the 'Go' sounds overly casual or slightly rude when addressing someone.

  • Using 'Gokinjo' for a specific shop next door. Tonari (隣)

    Gokinjo is the whole area; Tonari is specifically 'next door'.

  • Using 'Gokinjo' in a legal document. Kinrin (近隣)

    Kinrin is the professional term for neighborhood/vicinity in formal writing.

  • Confusing 'Gokinjo' with 'Kaiwai'. Kaiwai (界隈)

    Kaiwai is for trendy districts; Gokinjo is for residential neighborhoods.

نصائح

The Gift Rule

When you move into a new 'Gokinjo', it's customary to bring a small gift (under 1000 yen) to your immediate neighbors.

Greetings Matter

A simple 'Ohayou gozaimasu' (Good morning) to 'Gokinjo-san' goes a long way in maintaining peace.

Particle Choice

Use 'ni' for existence (there is a store), 'de' for actions (I ran), and 'o' for movement (I walked through).

Compound Power

Learn 'Gokinjo-zukiai' as a single unit; it's one of the most common ways to use the word.

Trash Talk

Following 'Gokinjo' trash rules is the #1 way to avoid 'Gokinjo-trouble' in Japan.

Anime Insight

Watch 'Sazae-san' to see the idealized version of Japanese 'Gokinjo' life.

Kanji Practice

Focus on the 'Jo' (所) kanji; it appears in many other words like 'Basho' (place).

Respect the Prefix

If you hear 'Go-' before 'Kinjo', the speaker is being polite or talking about social relations.

Softening Tone

Using 'Gokinjo-san' instead of just 'Tonari no hito' makes you sound much friendlier.

The Public Eye

Remember 'Gokinjo no me'—the idea that neighbors are always watching (for better or worse).

احفظها

وسيلة تذكّر

Go (Honorific) + Kin (Gold) + Jo (Joe). Imagine 'Honorary Gold Joe' who lives in your neighborhood.

ربط بصري

Imagine a friendly elderly person (Joe) handing you a golden orange over a fence in your neighborhood.

Word Web

House Street Neighbor Greeting Trash Park Store Community

تحدٍّ

Try to find three things in your current 'Gokinjo' and name them in Japanese (e.g., Gokinjo no kouen).

أصل الكلمة

Derived from Middle Chinese roots. 'Kin' (近) means near, and 'Jo' (所) means place.

المعنى الأصلي: A place that is near.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

السياق الثقافي

Be careful when discussing neighborhood issues; Japanese people value harmony (Wa) and may be indirect about complaints.

In the US/UK, 'neighborhood' is often just a location. In Japan, it's a social contract.

Gokinjo Monogatari (Manga by Ai Yazawa) Sazae-san (Anime) Always: Sunset on Third Street (Movie)

تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية

سياقات واقعية

Moving House

  • 引越しの挨拶
  • ご近所回り
  • これからお世話になります
  • 粗品ですが

Daily Errands

  • ご近所のスーパー
  • ちょっとそこまで
  • 散歩に出る
  • ついでに

Socializing

  • 井戸端会議
  • お裾分け
  • 立ち話
  • お天気がいいですね

Community Rules

  • ゴミ出しの日
  • 町内会の集まり
  • 回覧板
  • 掃除当番

Complaints

  • 騒音トラブル
  • ご近所迷惑
  • 苦情が来る
  • 静かにする

بدايات محادثة

"このご近所でおすすめのレストランはありますか?"

"ご近所付き合いで大変なことはありますか?"

"最近、ご近所に新しいお店ができましたね。"

"ご近所の猫を見かけたことはありますか?"

"私の家のご近所はとても静かで住みやすいです。"

مواضيع للكتابة اليومية

あなたのご近所はどんな場所ですか?詳しく書いてください。

最近、ご近所の人とどんな話をしましたか?

理想のご近所付き合いについて自分の考えを述べてください。

ご近所で一番好きな場所とその理由を書いてください。

もしご近所トラブルが起きたら、あなたならどう解決しますか?

الأسئلة الشائعة

10 أسئلة

No, it refers to both the physical neighborhood (place) and the people living there. Context determines which one is meant.

You can drop 'Go' when speaking very casually with close friends or family about the physical area, but keeping it is safer and more polite.

Usually, it's considered the area within a 5-10 minute walk from your home—the area where you might bump into people you recognize.

Not usually. It is specifically a residential term. For an office area, use 'Shokuba no chikaku' (Near the workplace).

It can be both! It can refer to 'the neighbors' as a group or a specific neighbor (e.g., 'Gokinjo-san no Tanaka-san').

It refers to the social interactions and relationships between neighbors, including greetings and mutual help.

In big cities, it's increasingly common to have little interaction, but in many areas, basic greetings are still expected to maintain harmony.

The 'Go' is an honorific prefix that makes the word sound softer and more respectful towards the community.

Yes, you can say 'Gokinjo no gyousha ga...' (The neighborhood businesses...) or 'Gokinjo no kankyou ga warui' (The neighborhood environment is bad).

Only if the business is specifically targeting local residents (e.g., a local marketing campaign).

اختبر نفسك 200 أسئلة

writing

Write a sentence: 'There is a bakery in the neighborhood.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence: 'I greeted the neighbor.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Neighborhood' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'The neighbors are kind.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen and identify the word: 'Gokinjo no suupaa'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen and identify the action: 'Gokinjo o sanpo suru'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence: 'Neighborhood relations are important.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence: 'I'm worried about the neighborhood eyes.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write a sentence: 'The neighborhood community is changing.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'Neighborhood dog'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'Neighborhood festival'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'I received a gift from a neighbor.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'Neighborhood noise problem'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'Neighborhood mutual aid system'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'Quiet neighborhood'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'New neighbor'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'I help my neighbors.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'Neighborhood crime prevention'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'Neighborhood ties are weakening.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'Where is the neighborhood?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'I walked in the neighborhood.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'A neighbor's reputation'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'The whole neighborhood'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
writing

Write 'Neighborhood consensus'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Neighborhood relations are important.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'I'm worried about the neighbors.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'The neighborhood community is weakening.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Nearby park'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'I met a neighbor.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'I received a gift.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Noise problem'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Mutual aid'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Quiet neighborhood'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Let's clean the neighborhood.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Good reputation'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Whole area'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Social surveillance'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'My friend lives nearby.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Moving-in greeting'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'I bother the neighbors.'

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Crime prevention meeting'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
speaking

Say 'Multicultural society'.

Read this aloud:

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Gokinjo-zukiai wa muzukashii'. (What is difficult?)

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Souon ga gokinjo-trouble no gen-in desu'. (What caused trouble?)

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Gokinjo no me ga bouhan ni naru'. (What helps crime prevention?)

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Shizuka na gokinjo'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Gokinjo-san ni aisatsu'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'O-susowake o ageru'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Gokinjo-ittai ga kurai'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Kihaku na gokinjo-zukiai'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Gokinjo no inu'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Gokinjo no matsuri'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Gokinjo no hyouban'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Akiya ga fueta'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
listening

Listen: 'Sougo-fujo no kino'.

صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:
صحيح! ليس تمامًا. الإجابة الصحيحة:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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