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B2 adjective 11 دقیقه مطالعه

健気な

kenage na

تمرین کن مثال‌ها نکات و راهنمایی‌ها 健気な در ۳۰ ثانیه

توضیح 健気な in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use 'kenage' yourself, but you can think of it as a special kind of 'good' or 'brave.' Imagine a small child trying to help their mom carry a heavy bag. They are small, but they are trying very hard. In English, we might say 'What a good boy!' or 'He's so brave!' In Japanese, when we see this and feel a little bit sad but very happy for the child, we use 'kenage.' It is a word for people who are small or weak but have a very big, strong heart. Just remember: it's for praising children or animals who do their best even when things are hard. You use it with 'na' like 'kenage-na kodomo' (a brave child).

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At the A2 level, you can start to understand that 'kenage' is a na-adjective used to describe people who work hard despite having a difficult time. It is different from 'genki' (energetic). While 'genki' is just about being happy and healthy, 'kenage' is about being strong in your heart. For example, if a child stays home alone and doesn't cry because they want their parents to work, that is 'kenage.' You will see this word in simple stories or hear it when people talk about pets or kids. The grammar is simple: [Person] wa [Kenage] desu. Or [Kenage-na] [Noun]. It’s a very warm word that shows you are moved by someone's effort.

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At the B1 level, you should recognize the emotional nuance of 'kenage.' It's not just 'brave' (yuukan); it's 'admirable in a touching way.' It is often used for someone in a 'weak' position—like a child, a person who is ill, or someone who has lost a lot. When they don't complain and keep trying, that spirit is 'kenage.' You'll start to see the adverbial form 'kenage-ni,' which means 'doing something in an admirable/plucky way.' For example, 'Kenage-ni hataraku' (to work admirably despite hardship). This word is very common in Japanese dramas and novels to describe characters that the audience should feel sympathy for. It’s a key word for understanding Japanese 'pathos.'

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At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'kenage' accurately in various contexts. You understand that it carries a 'top-down' nuance—it's usually said by an observer who feels a sense of protection or deep respect for the subject's spirit. You should avoid using it for your boss or social superiors, as it might sound like you are treating them like a child. Instead, use it for subordinates, younger people, or characters in literature. You should also be able to distinguish it from 'ijirashii' (which is more 'pitiful/cute') and 'yuukan' (which is more 'heroic/physical'). 'Kenage' is specifically about the 'spirit' (ki) being 'healthy/strong' (ken) despite the physical or situational weakness.

At the C1 level, you can appreciate the literary and cultural depth of 'kenage.' It connects to the Japanese aesthetic of finding beauty in the struggle of the small and the transient. You can use it to analyze character motivations in complex literature or to describe the resilience of a community after a disaster. You understand that the 'ken' (健) in 'kenage' (健気) originally meant 'vigorous' or 'healthy,' but the word has evolved into a term of high emotional praise for moral fortitude. You can use the noun form 'kenage-sa' to discuss abstract concepts of resilience. You are also aware of the potential for the word to be used sarcastically or to describe a 'kenage' trope in media criticism.

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At the C2 level, you have a native-like grasp of 'kenage,' including its historical evolution from the Edo period to the present. You can discuss how the meaning shifted from 'physical robustness' to 'spiritual pluckiness.' You are sensitive to the subtle power dynamics the word implies and can use it in sophisticated writing to evoke specific emotional responses in your reader. You can distinguish between 'kenage,' 'shushou,' and 'isagiyoi' in a nuanced way, choosing the word that perfectly fits the social status and emotional state of the subject. You might even use it metaphorically for inanimate objects (like a small flower blooming in a crack in the concrete) to create poetic imagery.

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تمرین کن مثال‌ها نکات و راهنمایی‌ها

健気な در ۳۰ ثانیه

A na-adjective meaning brave, admirable, or plucky, specifically regarding someone seen as weaker or disadvantaged.
Used to praise children, animals, or subordinates who endure hardship without complaining.
Carries a strong emotional nuance that touches the heart of the observer.
Not for social superiors; can sound patronizing if used incorrectly toward a boss.

The Japanese word 健気な (Kenage-na) is a beautiful and culturally dense adjective that captures a specific type of bravery. While English might use words like 'brave,' 'admirable,' 'plucky,' or 'gallant,' none of these quite capture the emotional weight of kenage. At its core, kenage describes a person—often someone perceived as weaker, smaller, or in a disadvantaged position—who faces hardship or performs a duty with such unwavering spirit and selflessness that it touches the hearts of those watching. It is the bravery of the underdog, the stoicism of a child, or the tireless effort of someone who asks for nothing in return. It is a word that bridges the gap between 'strength' and 'pathos,' making it one of the most evocative terms in the Japanese emotional lexicon.

The Nuance of Vulnerability: Unlike the word yuukan (brave), which suggests a hero charging into battle, kenage implies a level of vulnerability. It is used when a child tries to help their sick mother even though they are tired, or when a small dog protects its owner against a larger threat. The 'admirable' quality comes from the contrast between the person's limited strength and their immense spirit.
Social Context and Praise: In Japanese society, kenage is a high form of praise. It highlights the virtue of gaman (endurance) and omoiyari (consideration for others). When you call someone kenage, you are acknowledging their struggle and expressing a deep sense of respect and often a protective affection (itoshisa) toward them.

幼い弟が涙をこらえて母を助ける姿は、実にも健気なものだった。(The sight of the young younger brother holding back tears to help his mother was truly admirable/plucky.)

Historically, the word has evolved significantly. In the Edo period, it could refer to physical health or a robust spirit in a more general sense. However, modern usage has narrowed it down to this 'touching bravery.' You will often find this word in literature, news reports about children overcoming adversity, or in anime where a character continues to fight despite being clearly outmatched. It is a word that evokes a 'lump in the throat' for the observer. It is not just that the person is doing something good; it is that they are doing something difficult with a purity of heart that seems beyond their expected capacity.

病気と闘いながら笑顔を絶やさない彼女の健気な態度に心を打たれた。(I was moved by her admirable attitude, never losing her smile while fighting her illness.)

Emotional Resonance: The word carries a sense of 'purity' (junsuisa). The person isn't being brave for fame or money; they are doing it because it's the right thing to do or because they care for someone else. This purity is what makes the observer feel jiin to kuru (deeply moved).

In daily conversation, you might hear a mother describe her child as kenage when they try to help with chores. Or you might see a sports commentator use it for an athlete who continues to compete despite a painful injury. It captures the essence of the human spirit refusing to be crushed by circumstances. To understand kenage is to understand a core Japanese value: the beauty found in silent, humble perseverance.

Grammatically, 健気な (Kenage-na) is a na-adjective (adjectival noun). This means it follows the standard rules for na-adjectives: it takes -na before a noun and -ni when used as an adverb to modify a verb. Understanding its placement is key to sounding natural. Because it describes an internal quality that manifests in external actions, it is frequently paired with nouns like sugata (appearance/figure), doryoku (effort), or kokorozashi (will/intent).

Modifying Nouns: When you want to describe a 'brave child' or an 'admirable effort,' you use the form [Kenage-na + Noun]. This is the most common usage. It sets the tone for the entire sentence, immediately signaling to the listener that the subject is someone deserving of sympathy and respect.

彼は健気な努力を続けて、ついに目標を達成した。(He continued his admirable efforts and finally achieved his goal.)

When used as an adverb (kenage-ni), it describes how someone is doing something. It emphasizes the spirit behind the action. If a child is cleaning the house while their parents are away, they are cleaning kenage-ni. This adverbial form often precedes verbs of action or endurance, such as hataraku (work), taeru (endure), or furumau (behave).

小さな体で健気に働く姿に、誰もが感動した。(Everyone was moved by the sight of [the child] working admirably with such a small body.)

Sentence Endings: To say someone 'is admirable,' you use kenage da or kenage desu. In casual speech, kenage ne or kenage da ne is common when expressing shared sentiment about someone's behavior. It often follows a description of an action that triggered the feeling.

一人で留守番をしていたなんて、本当に健気だね。(Staying home alone [at such a young age]—that's really brave/admirable, isn't it?)

One more advanced usage is the construction kenage-sa (the noun 'admirability' or 'pluckiness'). This is used when discussing the quality itself as a concept. For example, 'I was struck by the kenage-sa of the survivors.' This shifts the focus from the person to the abstract quality of their spirit.

その子の健気さに、周囲の大人は皆、涙した。(All the adults around were moved to tears by that child's pluckiness.)

Understanding the context of 健気な (Kenage-na) is crucial because it isn't used for every type of bravery. You won't hear it used for a firefighter running into a burning building (that's yuukan) or a politician making a tough decision (that's ketsudan-ryoku). Instead, kenage lives in the world of personal struggle, family ties, and the 'small' moments that carry great weight. Here are the most common places you will encounter this word in modern Japan.

Anime and Manga: This is perhaps the most frequent place for learners to hear kenage. It is a staple descriptor for 'tragic heroines' or younger siblings who support the protagonist. Think of a character like Nezuko from Demon Slayer or any character who suffers in silence for the sake of their loved ones. Fans will often describe these characters as kenage in online forums and reviews.

「あんなに小さいのに、家族のために健気に頑張るなんて...」(Even though they are so small, to work so admirably for their family...)

In Japanese news media, kenage is often used in human-interest stories. After natural disasters like the 2011 earthquake or more recent floods, reporters often focus on children who are helping with the recovery or staying positive despite losing their homes. This usage highlights the resilience of the Japanese people through the lens of those most vulnerable.

Daily Parenting and Education: Teachers and parents use this word to praise children. If a kindergartner tries to tie their shoes for ten minutes without giving up or crying, a teacher might say, 'Kenage da ne.' It’s a way of validating the effort rather than just the result. It’s a very warm, affectionate word in this context.

一生懸命にお手伝いをする子供の健気な姿に癒やされる。(I am comforted by the admirable sight of the child trying their best to help.)

Finally, you will hear it in the world of sports, particularly when an underdog team or a player returning from a major injury competes. Even if they don't win, their kenage spirit is celebrated. It’s about the 'fight' in the dog, not the size of the dog. If you watch the Paralympics, for instance, the word kenage is frequently used in Japanese commentary to describe the athletes' dedication and spirit.

怪我を乗り越えてコートに立つ彼の姿は、健気そのものだった。(The sight of him standing on the court after overcoming his injury was the very definition of pluckiness.)

Using 健気な (Kenage-na) incorrectly can lead to awkward social situations or unintended meanings. Because the word is so emotionally charged and carries specific social hierarchies, there are several pitfalls that English speakers should avoid. The most common mistakes involve the 'Who,' the 'Why,' and the 'Scale' of the action being described.

The 'Superiority' Trap: As mentioned before, kenage implies that the subject is in a weaker or more vulnerable position. If you use it to describe your boss, a senior colleague, or someone you should be showing high respect (keigo) to, it can sound like you are 'looking down' on them. It suggests they are like a child or a small animal. Instead, use words like rippa (splendid) or toutoi (noble) for superiors.

❌ 社長はとても健気な方ですね。(The CEO is a very 'plucky' person - Sounds patronizing.)
✅ 社長はとても立派な方ですね。(The CEO is a very splendid/admirable person.)

Another mistake is confusing kenage with pure physical strength or bravery. If someone lifts a heavy car to save a person, that is not kenage; that is yuukan (brave) or sugoi (amazing). Kenage requires a sense of 'effort against the odds' or 'spirit despite weakness.' If the person is already strong and capable, the word doesn't fit.

Confusing with 'Ijimashii': There is a similar word, ijimashii, which also means 'admirable/pitiful.' However, ijimashii has a much stronger nuance of 'pitiful' or 'pathetic.' Kenage is 90% positive/admirable, whereas ijimashii can sometimes feel sad or even slightly miserable. Using ijimashii when you mean kenage can make the person seem more like a victim than a hero.

彼は健気に耐えている。(He is admirably enduring - Positive focus on his spirit.)

Finally, ensure you don't use it for trivial things. If a billionaire buys a slightly cheaper car to save money, that isn't kenage. The action must involve some level of sacrifice or emotional fortitude. It’s about the heart, not just the action. Using it for trivialities makes the word lose its profound emotional impact.

Japanese has many words for 'bravery' and 'admirable behavior,' and choosing the right one depends on the age of the person, the nature of the act, and the emotion you want to convey. Here is how 健気な (Kenage-na) compares to its closest synonyms and alternatives.

健気 (Kenage) vs. 勇敢 (Yuukan): 勇敢 (Yuukan) is the standard word for 'brave' or 'courageous.' It is gender-neutral and age-neutral. It focuses on the act of facing fear or danger. 健気 (Kenage), however, focuses on the spirit and the pathos of the person. A soldier is yuukan; a child waiting for their soldier parent to come home is kenage.
健気 (Kenage) vs. 殊勝 (Shushou): 殊勝 (Shushou) means 'admirable' or 'praiseworthy,' often used when someone does something they aren't expected to do, or when they show a remarkably serious attitude. While kenage is emotional and 'heart-touching,' shushou is more formal and 'commendable.' You might call a student's study habits shushou, but you'd call a child's care for a stray kitten kenage.

Comparison:
1. 彼は勇敢に敵に立ち向かった。(He bravely faced the enemy - Yuukan)
2. 彼は健気に病気と闘っている。(He is admirably fighting his illness - Kenage)

Another interesting comparison is with いじらしい (Ijirashii). This word is very close to kenage but leans even further into the 'pitiful/cute' side. It is almost exclusively used for children or small animals. If a child tries to reach a high shelf and fails but keeps trying, that is ijirashii. Kenage has a bit more 'strength of will' (tsuyoi ishi) attached to it.

健気 (Kenage) vs. 献身的 (Kenshin-teki): 献身的 (Kenshin-teki) means 'devoted' or 'self-sacrificing.' While a kenage person is often self-sacrificing, kenshin-teki is a more objective description of their behavior. Kenage describes the impression they leave on you. A nurse might provide kenshin-teki care, which we observe as a kenage sight.

In summary, kenage is your 'emotional' brave. It is the word for the heart, for the underdog, and for the quiet strength that exists in the most unlikely places. By mastering the distinction between these words, you will be able to express a much wider range of human admiration in Japanese.

چقدر رسمی است؟

نکته جالب

In the Edo period, 'kenage' could actually mean 'manly' or 'brave' in a more general sense. Over time, the meaning shifted to focus on the 'touching' aspect of bravery shown by those who are not expected to be strong.

راهنمای تلفظ

UK /kɛnɑːɡɛ nɑː/

US /kɛnɑɡɛ nɑ/

Japanese is a pitch-accent language. In 'Kenage,' the pitch is usually Low-High-High-High (Heiban style).

هم‌قافیه با

Age (if mispronounced) Mage (if mispronounced) Sage (if mispronounced) Hage (Japanese for bald) Kage (Japanese for shadow) Sage (Japanese for lowering) Age (Japanese for raising) Nage (Japanese for throwing)

خطاهای رایج

Pronouncing 'ge' as 'jee' (like in 'age'). It should be a hard 'g' like in 'get'.
Stressing the 'Ke' too much.
Making the 'na' sound like 'nay' instead of 'nah'.
Using a long 'e' sound at the end (kenagee).
Mixing up the pitch accent and making it sound like a question.

سطح دشواری

خواندن 3/5

Kanji is common but 'kenage' is a specific reading. Not too difficult.

نوشتن 4/5

Writing 'Kenage' in kanji requires remembering the specific combination of 'health' and 'spirit'.

صحبت کردن 4/5

Nuance is tricky. Using it for the wrong person (a boss) is a common high-level mistake.

گوش دادن 3/5

Easy to hear in dramas and anime once you know the word.

بعداً چه یاد بگیریم؟

پیش‌نیازها

勇敢 (Yuukan) 元気 (Genki) 努力 (Doryoku) 感動 (Kandou) 我慢 (Gaman)

بعداً یاد بگیرید

殊勝 (Shushou) 潔い (Isagiyoi) 健勝 (Kenshou) 不屈 (Fukutsu) 献身 (Kenshin)

پیشرفته

判官贔屓 (Hangan-biiki) 滅私奉公 (Messhi-houkou) 剛毅果断 (Gouki-kadan) 不撓不屈 (Futou-fukutsu) 一念通天 (Ichinen-tsuuten)

گرامر لازم

Na-Adjective Modification

健気な(na)子供

Adverbial form with 'ni'

健気に(ni)頑張る

Noun formation with 'sa'

彼の健気さ(sa)

Emphasis with 'mo'

健気にも(mo)笑う

Conditional 'ba... hodo'

健気であればあるほど(hodo)切ない

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مثال‌ها بر اساس سطح

健気な子供ですね。

What an admirable child.

Kenage-na is a na-adjective modifying 'kodomo'.

犬が健気に待っています。

The dog is waiting admirably.

Kenage-ni is the adverbial form.

彼は健気です。

He is admirable/plucky.

Simple predicate usage.

健気な姿に感動しました。

I was moved by the admirable sight.

Kenage-na modifies 'sugata' (appearance/sight).

健気に頑張りましょう。

Let's do our best admirably.

Adverbial use with 'ganbarimashou'.

それは健気な努力です。

That is an admirable effort.

Kenage-na modifies 'doryoku' (effort).

健気な女の子がいました。

There was a plucky girl.

Standard na-adjective usage.

健気だね！

How admirable!

Casual sentence ending with 'ne'.

一人でお手伝いをするなんて、健気ですね。

Helping out all by yourself—that's admirable.

The clause ending in 'nante' introduces the reason for the praise.

健気な弟を助けたいです。

I want to help my plucky younger brother.

Kenage-na modifying 'otouto'.

彼女は健気に涙を拭きました。

She admirably wiped away her tears.

Focuses on the spirit of the action.

健気な猫が飼い主を守りました。

The brave little cat protected its owner.

Used for animals showing spirit.

その健気な心に感謝します。

I am grateful for that admirable heart.

Kenage-na modifying 'kokoro'.

健気に働く姿を見て、元気が出ました。

Seeing them work so admirably gave me energy.

The sight (sugata) of working (hataraku) kenage-ni.

彼は健気にも、文句を言いませんでした。

He was so admirable that he didn't even complain.

'Kenage-ni-mo' adds emphasis to the admirability.

健気な態度がみんなに好かれています。

Their admirable attitude is liked by everyone.

Kenage-na modifying 'taido' (attitude).

病気のお母さんのために、健気に料理を作る息子。

A son admirably cooking for his sick mother.

The context of 'weak person doing their best' is clear here.

震災の後、子供たちが健気に片付けを手伝っていた。

After the earthquake, the children were admirably helping with the cleanup.

Describes group behavior in a tragic context.

負けても健気に相手を称える選手に拍手を送りたい。

I want to applaud the player who admirably praises their opponent even after losing.

Kenage-ni modifying the verb 'tataeru' (praise).

彼女の健気な振る舞いに、会場中が涙した。

The entire venue was moved to tears by her admirable behavior.

Kenage-na modifying 'furumai' (behavior).

どんなに辛くても、彼は健気に笑顔を見せている。

No matter how hard it is, he is admirably showing a smile.

Contrast between 'tsurai' (painful) and 'kenage' (admirable).

小さな島で健気に生きる人々の暮らしを追ったドキュメンタリー。

A documentary following the lives of people living admirably on a small island.

Kenage-ni modifying 'ikiru' (to live).

健気な努力が実を結び、彼はついに合格した。

His admirable efforts bore fruit, and he finally passed.

Kenage-na modifying 'doryoku' (effort).

彼の健気さを思うと、胸が熱くなる。

When I think of his pluckiness, my heart swells.

Noun form 'kenage-sa'.

逆境に置かれてもなお、健気に志を貫こうとする若者たち。

Young people who, despite being in adversity, admirably try to carry out their intentions.

Formal/written style with 'gyakkyou' (adversity) and 'tsuranuku' (carry out).

その健気な決意を無下にするようなことは、私にはできない。

I cannot do anything that would make light of that admirable determination.

Kenage-na modifying 'ketsui' (determination).

健気に振る舞えば振る舞うほど、周囲の同情を誘うこともある。

The more admirably one behaves, the more it sometimes invites the sympathy of those around them.

The 'ba... hodo' construction (the more... the more).

亡き父の跡を継ごうと、彼女は健気に修行に励んでいる。

In order to follow in her late father's footsteps, she is admirably devoting herself to training.

Kenage-ni modifying 'hagemu' (strive/devote oneself).

彼は自分の苦しみを隠し、健気に周囲を元気づけていた。

He hid his own suffering and admirably cheered up those around him.

Describes a specific selfless type of bravery.

健気なヒロイン像は、日本のドラマにおける定番の要素だ。

The image of the 'plucky heroine' is a staple element in Japanese dramas.

Kenage-na modifying 'heroine-zou' (heroine image).

捨てられた子犬が健気に生きようとする姿に、胸を打たれた。

I was struck by the sight of the abandoned puppy trying admirably to survive.

Kenage-ni modifying 'ikiru' (to live).

彼女の健気な一言が、チームの雰囲気を一変させた。

Her one admirable word completely changed the atmosphere of the team.

Kenage-na modifying 'hitokoto' (a single word).

封建社会の荒波の中で、健気に自己を保とうとする女性の生き様。

The way of life of a woman who admirably tries to maintain her selfhood amidst the stormy seas of feudal society.

High-level vocabulary like 'houken shakai' and 'ikizama'.

その健気なまでの献身は、時に周囲に重荷を感じさせることすらある。

That devotion, to the point of being admirable, can sometimes even make those around feel a burden.

'Kenage-na made no' (to the point of being kenage).

作者は、主人公の健気さを通じて、人間の尊厳を描き出そうとした。

The author attempted to depict human dignity through the pluckiness of the protagonist.

Literary analysis context.

健気に振る舞うことが、彼女にとって唯一の自己防衛手段だったのかもしれない。

Behaving admirably might have been the only means of self-defense for her.

Psychological nuance of the word.

その健気な志に免じて、今回だけは目をつぶろう。

In light of that admirable intent, I'll overlook it just this once.

Idiomatic use of 'menjite' (in consideration of).

健気な努力を嘲笑うような社会であってはならない。

It must not be a society that mocks admirable efforts.

Social commentary context.

彼女の健気なまでの純粋さが、かえって周囲の汚濁を際立たせている。

Her purity, to the point of being admirable, rather highlights the corruption of those around her.

Contrast between 'kenage-na junsuisa' and 'odaku' (corruption).

健気に耐え忍ぶ美徳は、現代においてもなお価値を失っていない。

The virtue of admirable endurance has not lost its value even in modern times.

Discussion of cultural values.

近世文学における「健気」の概念は、武士道的価値観と深く結びついている。

The concept of 'kenage' in early modern literature is deeply linked with Bushido values.

Academic discussion of etymology and history.

彼女の健気な振る舞いは、計算された演技なのか、それとも天性のものなのか。

Is her admirable behavior a calculated performance, or is it something innate?

Deep character analysis/skepticism.

「健気」という言葉の裏には、弱者に対する強者の慈しみという権力構造が潜んでいる。

Behind the word 'kenage' lies a power structure of the strong showing affection for the weak.

Critical linguistic analysis.

健気に咲く路傍の石に、万物の流転と生の執着を見た。

In the flower blooming admirably by the roadside, I saw the flux of all things and the tenacity of life.

Highly poetic/philosophical usage.

その健気なまでの愚直さが、最後には運命をも変えてしまった。

That simple honesty, to the point of being admirable, ended up changing even fate itself.

'Guchoku' (simple honesty) paired with 'kenage'.

健気な自己犠牲を美化しすぎる風潮には、警戒が必要だ。

One must be wary of the trend to over-beautify admirable self-sacrifice.

Sociopolitical critique.

言葉本来の勢いを失い、憐憫の情に特化していった「健気」の変遷を辿る。

Tracing the transition of 'kenage,' which lost its original vigor and became specialized in feelings of pity.

Philological analysis.

健気な一念が岩をも通すというが、彼女の執念は正にそれであった。

They say an admirable focus can pierce even rock, and her tenacity was exactly that.

Allusion to the proverb 'Ichi-nen iwa o mo toosu'.

ترکیب‌های رایج

健気な姿

健気に振る舞う

健気な努力

健気な心

健気にも

健気な決意

健気に耐える

健気な一言

健気さを失わない

健気なヒロイン

عبارات رایج

健気なものだ

— Used to emphasize how truly admirable someone's behavior is. It adds a touch of exclamation.

一人で頑張るなんて、健気なものだ。

健気に生きる

— To live one's life with pluck and resilience despite many hardships. Often used in biographies.

彼女は戦後を健気に生き抜いた。

健気さが伝わる

— When someone's admirable spirit is felt by others. Used when an effort is visible and moving.

彼の健気さが周囲に伝わった。

健気に待つ

— To wait patiently and admirably for someone, often used for children or pets.

ハチ公は健気に主人を待ち続けた。

健気な振る舞い

— The overall manner of behaving in a plucky, admirable way.

その健気な振る舞いに感銘を受けた。

健気な願い

— A simple, pure, and touching wish, usually from a child.

サンタさんへの健気な願い事。

健気な志

— A noble and admirable intention or ambition, especially in a young person.

健気な志を応援したい。

健気に応援する

— To cheer for someone with all one's heart, often in a way that is touching to see.

小さな妹が健気に応援していた。

健気な愛

— A pure, selfless love that involves sacrifice or endurance.

それは健気な愛の形だった。

健気な勇気

— The specific type of courage associated with the 'kenage' spirit.

健気な勇気を持って一歩踏み出す。

اغلب اشتباه گرفته می‌شود با

健気な vs 勇敢 (Yuukan)

Yuukan is 'heroic' bravery; Kenage is 'touching' bravery of the weak.

健気な vs いじらしい (Ijirashii)

Ijirashii is more 'pitiful/cute'; Kenage has more 'strength of will'.

健気な vs 殊勝 (Shushou)

Shushou is about a 'serious/praiseworthy attitude'; Kenage is more emotional.

اصطلاحات و عبارات

"健気な一念岩をも通す"

— A variation of 'Ichinen iwa o mo toosu.' It means that even a small person's admirable focus can achieve impossible things.

健気な一念岩をも通すという通り、彼は奇跡を起こした。

Literary

"健気に尽くす"

— To serve or devote oneself to someone else in a touching, selfless manner.

夫のために健気に尽くす妻。

Neutral/Traditional

"健気な花"

— Metaphor for a person who blooms (succeeds or stays beautiful) in harsh conditions.

彼女は泥の中に咲く健気な花だ。

Poetic

"健気な働き"

— Admirable work or contribution, often referring to someone young or inexperienced.

新人の健気な働きに期待する。

Professional/Warm

"健気な涙"

— Tears shed by someone who is trying to be brave. These are seen as pure and moving.

健気な涙を見て、誰もが助けたいと思った。

Emotional

"健気に耐え忍ぶ"

— To endure and persevere with a plucky spirit. A very 'Japanese' virtue.

貧しさに健気に耐え忍ぶ一家。

Literary

"健気な覚悟"

— The admirable resolution of someone facing a difficult fate.

幼い王子の健気な覚悟に涙する。

Dramatic

"健気な応援"

— Cheering that is so sincere and heartfelt it moves the person being cheered for.

ファンからの健気な応援が力になった。

Neutral

"健気な一生"

— An admirable life spent working hard and caring for others despite personal hardship.

祖母の健気な一生を振り返る。

Biographical

"健気に振る舞い通す"

— To maintain an admirable attitude until the very end.

彼は最後まで健気に振る舞い通した。

Narrative

به‌راحتی اشتباه گرفته می‌شود

健気な vs 潔い (Isagiyoi)

Both are types of 'admirable' behavior.

Isagiyoi is about being a 'clean' or 'good' loser/person (manly bravery). Kenage is about the struggle of the small/weak.

犯人は潔く罪を認めた (Isagiyoi) vs 子供が健気に謝った (Kenage).

健気な vs 健勝 (Kenshou)

They share the same first kanji (健).

Kenshou is a formal word for 'good health' used in letters. Kenage is about spirit/pluckiness.

ご健勝をお祈りします (Kenshou).

健気な vs 健気 (Kenage) vs 健やか (Sukoyaka)

Both share the kanji 健.

Sukoyaka means 'healthy/wholesome' in a physical and mental sense. Kenage is specifically about touching bravery.

健やかに育つ (Sukoyaka) vs 健気に耐える (Kenage).

健気な vs 殊勝 (Shushou) vs 健気 (Kenage)

Both mean 'admirable.'

Shushou implies a person is acting better than their usual self or showing great discipline. Kenage implies they are acting strong despite being weak.

殊勝な心がけだ。

健気な vs 哀れ (Aware) vs 健気 (Kenage)

Both involve feeling something for someone in a bad spot.

Aware is 'pitiful/sad' (negative). Kenage is 'admirable' (positive/inspiring).

哀れな境遇 vs 健気な闘病生活。

الگوهای جمله‌سازی

[Person] wa kenage desu.

彼は健気です。

Kenage-na [Noun] desu ne.

健気な子供ですね。

Kenage-ni [Verb].

健気に頑張っています。

Kenage-na sugata ni [Emotion].

健気な姿に感動しました。

Kenage-na made no [Noun].

健気なまでの努力。

Kenage-sa no ura ni [Noun].

健気さの裏に隠された苦悩。

Kenage-ni-mo [Verb].

健気にも笑って見せた。

Kenage-sa o kanjiru.

彼の振る舞いに健気さを感じる。

خانواده کلمه

اسم‌ها

健気さ (Kenage-sa) - Pluckiness/Admirability

صفت‌ها

健気な (Kenage-na) - Plucky/Admirable

مرتبط

健康 (Kenkou) - Health

勇気 (Yuuki) - Courage

元気 (Genki) - Energy/Vitality

気立て (Kidate) - Disposition

健勝 (Kenshou) - Good health (formal)

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نحوه استفاده

frequency

Common in literature, media, and parenting; less common in business or technical reports.

اشتباهات رایج

Using 'kenage' for a professional superior. → Use 'rippa' (splendid) or 'toutoi' (noble).
Kenage implies the person is in a weak or lower position. Using it for a boss is patronizing.
Using 'kenage' for a physically powerful person's bravery. → Use 'yuukan' (courageous) or 'isamashii' (valiant).
Kenage requires a sense of vulnerability or 'smallness' in the subject.
Describing yourself as 'kenage'. → Describe your actions, or use 'isshoukenmei' (I'm doing my best).
Praising your own spirit as 'admirable' is culturally taboo in Japan.
Confusing 'kenage' with 'sukoyaka'. → Use 'sukoyaka' for health, 'kenage' for spirit.
Both share a kanji, but 'sukoyaka' is about healthy growth/body, 'kenage' is about pluckiness.
Using 'kenage' for a trivial or easy task. → Use 'erai' (great/good job).
Kenage requires a backdrop of hardship or adversity to be meaningful.

نکات

The 'Tear-Jerker' Word

Think of 'kenage' as the word that triggers a 'lump in the throat.' If an action makes you want to cry because it's so sweet and brave, 'kenage' is the right word.

Adverbial Power

Use 'kenage-ni' before verbs of effort like 'ganbaru', 'hataraku', or 'taeru' to instantly add an emotional backstory to the action.

Mind the Status

Never use 'kenage' for your boss or anyone higher in rank. It frames them as 'vulnerable,' which can be seen as an insult to their authority.

Pair with 'Sugata'

The most common pairing is 'kenage-na sugata' (admirable figure/sight). It's a 'set phrase' in many emotional stories.

Underdog Spirit

Understand that 'kenage' is a core part of the Japanese love for the underdog. It's not about winning; it's about how you fight when you're small.

Literary Flair

In creative writing, use 'kenage-sa' (the noun) to describe the atmosphere of a scene where someone is struggling bravely.

Anime Cues

When a character says 'kenage da ne...' they are usually showing they have been won over by the other person's sincerity.

Kanji Meaning

Remember 健 (health) and 気 (spirit). It's literally 'healthy spirit' appearing on the outside.

Not Just 'Brave'

Don't use it for a giant warrior. Use it for the child who gives the warrior a flower before the battle.

The 'Mo' Particle

Adding 'mo' as in 'kenage-ni-mo' translates to 'admirable as it was...' or 'bravely enough...'. It adds a lot of flavor.

حفظ کنید

روش یادسپاری

Think of a 'KEN' doll who has a lot of 'AGE' (spirit/energy) despite being just a small toy. He is 'Kenage' because he's small but brave.

تداعی تصویری

Imagine a tiny sprout pushing through a crack in a heavy concrete sidewalk. That sprout is 'kenage.'

شبکه واژگان

Spirit Underdog Child Bravery Pathos Endurance Touching Small

چالش

Try to find one 'kenage' action in your life today—either something you did or something you saw—and describe it using 'kenage-ni' in a sentence.

ریشه کلمه

The word is composed of two kanji: 健 (Ken - healthy/strong) and 気 (Ge - spirit/appearance). Originally, in the medieval period, it referred to physical robustness or a vigorous, healthy state of mind.

معنای اصلی: Vigorous, healthy, or physically strong.

Sino-Japanese (Kango origin)

بافت فرهنگی

Avoid using it for people of higher status than you. It can imply they are 'pitiful' or 'small,' which is rude to a superior.

English often lacks a single word for this. 'Plucky' is close but often sounds a bit old-fashioned or lighthearted. 'Admirable' is too broad. 'Kenage' is more emotional.

Oshin (Famous Japanese drama about a girl's kenage life). Hachiko (The faithful dog who waited kenage-ni). Hotaru no Haka (Grave of the Fireflies - the children's struggle is the ultimate kenage).

تمرین در زندگی واقعی

موقعیت‌های واقعی

Parenting

健気なお手伝い
健気に我慢する
健気な成長
健気な姿に泣ける

Anime/Manga Criticism

健気なヒロイン
健気キャラ
健気さが売り
健気すぎて辛い

Disaster/News Reporting

健気に復興を支える
健気な被災地の子供たち
健気な努力の積み重ね
健気な笑顔

Animal Stories

健気に待つ忠犬
健気に生きる野良猫
健気な保護犬
健気な生命力

Sports Commentary

健気なプレー
健気に食らいつく
健気な挑戦者
健気な闘志

شروع‌کننده‌های مکالمه

"あの映画の主人公、すごく健気で感動したよね？"

"最近、何か健気な姿を見て感動したことはある？"

"子供が健気にお手伝いしているのを見ると、どう思う？"

"日本のアニメには、なぜ健気なキャラクターが多いんだろう？"

"自分を「健気」だと思う瞬間って、どんな時？"

موضوعات نگارش

今日見かけた「健気な姿」について、詳しく描写してください。

あなたが人生で一番「健気に頑張った」と思う時のことを書いてください。

「健気」という言葉のニュアンスを、あなたの母国語で説明するとどうなりますか？

健気な努力は、必ず報われるべきだと思いますか？その理由も書いてください。

あなたが好きな「健気なキャラクター」とその魅力を教えてください。

سوالات متداول

10 سوال

Yes, but it's usually for a man in a vulnerable position, like someone who is ill, an underdog athlete, or a younger man working hard. For a strong, powerful man, 'yuukan' or 'rippa' is better. Using 'kenage' for a grown man can sometimes sound a bit feminine or patronizing depending on the context.

It's the closest English equivalent. However, 'kenage' has a stronger emotional 'tear-jerking' nuance that 'plucky' sometimes lacks. 'Kenage' makes the observer want to protect or support the person.

Generally, no. In Japanese culture, praising your own spirit as 'admirable' or 'plucky' is seen as arrogant. You should describe your actions and let others call you 'kenage'.

It is overwhelmingly positive as a term of praise. However, because it implies the subject is in a 'weak' or 'sad' situation, some people might feel it's a bit patronizing if used toward them.

There isn't one perfect opposite, but 'hikyou' (cowardly/unfair) or 'ikujinashi' (spineless) are common antonyms for the spirit it describes.

It is written as 健気. 健 (health) and 気 (spirit/appearance).

Yes, metaphorically. For example, a small flower blooming in a desert or a tiny boat in a storm can be described as 'kenage'.

Rarely. It's too emotional. You might use it to describe a junior employee's hard work in a private conversation, but not in a formal performance review.

The 'Kenage Heroine' is a classic trope in Japanese storytelling—a girl who endures hardship with a smile. It appeals to the audience's desire to protect and support her.

Isshoukenmei just means 'with all one's might.' Kenage-ni adds the emotional layer of 'despite being weak/small' and 'in a way that moves others'.

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