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B1 noun #6,000 le plus courant 10 min de lecture

営み

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces
Explication 営み in your Level:
At the A1 level, learners are just beginning to grasp basic vocabulary and simple sentence structures. They can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. They can introduce themselves and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where they live and people they know. They can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly. Vocabulary at this stage is limited to concrete nouns, simple verbs, and basic adjectives related to immediate surroundings and personal information.
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A2 learners can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g. very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). They can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters. They can describe in simple terms aspects of their background, immediate environment and matters in areas of immediate need. Vocabulary expands to include more common verbs, adjectives, and adverbs, along with basic prepositions and conjunctions. They can form simple compound sentences.
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B1 learners can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. They can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. They can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest. They can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes & ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans. Vocabulary becomes more abstract, including words related to feelings, opinions, and more complex concepts. They can use a wider range of grammatical structures, including subordinate clauses and more complex verb conjugations.
B2 learners can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. They can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. They can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options. Vocabulary includes more specialized terms, idiomatic expressions, and nuanced meanings. They can use a broad range of grammatical structures accurately and effectively.
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C1 learners can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. They can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. They can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic and professional purposes. They can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices. Vocabulary is extensive and includes idiomatic expressions, collocations, and subtle shades of meaning. They have a high degree of grammatical accuracy and control.
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C2 learners can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. They can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. They can express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations. Vocabulary is virtually identical to that of a native speaker, including specialized terminology, slang, and cultural references. They demonstrate complete mastery of grammar and complex sentence structures.
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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces
The word 営み (いとなみ) is a rich noun that describes the activities and the general flow of life. It's not just about doing things, but the entire process of living, working, and undertaking various tasks that make up one's existence. Think of it as the 'doing' and the 'living' combined. People often use 営み when they want to talk about the fundamental aspects of life, whether it's the daily grind of work, the upkeep of a household, or the broader endeavors that give meaning to existence. It can be used in a very personal sense, referring to your own life's activities, or in a more general sense, referring to the activities of a community or even humanity. The nuance is often one of quiet diligence, persistent effort, and the essential nature of these activities in sustaining life or achieving a goal. It's a word that implies a certain level of responsibility and continuous engagement. For example, you might hear it used when discussing someone's livelihood, their daily routines, or the efforts they put into a particular project or lifestyle. The term can also carry a slightly more poetic or philosophical tone, reflecting on the nature of human activity and its purpose. It's a versatile word that can be applied to a wide range of human endeavors, from the mundane to the significant.
Usage Context
This word is commonly found in more reflective or descriptive contexts, often in literature, essays, or discussions about life, work, and personal fulfillment. It's less likely to be heard in casual, everyday chatter unless the topic specifically revolves around the nature of work or life's pursuits.
Nuance
The word 営み often implies a sense of sustained effort and purpose. It's not just about a single action but the ongoing process of living and doing.

日々の営みを大切にする。

Valuing one's daily activities.

農家の営みは自然と共にあった。

The farmer's endeavors were in harmony with nature.
Related Concepts
The word often overlaps with concepts like 生活 (seikatsu - life, living), 仕事 (shigoto - work), and 事業 (jigyou - undertaking, enterprise), but it carries a broader, more encompassing feel of ongoing activity.
Using 営み (いとなみ) in sentences allows you to express the concept of life's activities and undertakings with a nuanced depth. It's particularly effective when you want to convey a sense of continuity, effort, and the essential nature of these activities. You can use it to describe the daily routines of individuals, the operations of a business, or even the natural processes of life. For instance, when referring to personal life, you might say, "日々の営みを大切にしています" (Hibino itonami o taisetsu ni shite imasu), meaning "I cherish my daily activities." This emphasizes the importance placed on the ongoing actions that constitute one's life. In the context of work or business, it can be used as in, "この会社の営みは順調に進んでいる" (Kono kaisha no itonami wa junchou ni susunde iru), meaning "This company's operations are proceeding smoothly." Here, 営み refers to the ongoing business activities. When discussing a specific endeavor or lifestyle, you might say, "彼の営みは静かで質素だ" (Kare no itonami wa shizuka de shisso da), meaning "His way of life is quiet and simple." This highlights the character of his daily undertakings. The word can also be used to describe the activities of nature or living things, such as, "森の営みは神秘的だ" (Mori no itonami wa shinpiteki da), meaning "The activities of the forest are mysterious." This shows its versatility beyond human activities. It’s crucial to note that 営み often implies a sustained effort and a certain level of purpose. It's not a fleeting action but a continuous process. Therefore, when constructing sentences, consider the ongoing nature of the activity you are describing. The word can also be paired with verbs like する (suru - to do), 送る (okuru - to send, to live), or 営む (itonamu - to run, to manage, to conduct), though 営み itself is a noun. For example, "彼は新しい事業の営みに情熱を注いでいる" (Kare wa atarashii jigyou no itonami ni jounetsu o sosoide iru), meaning "He is pouring his passion into the undertaking of his new business." This sentence effectively uses 営み to describe the entire process of initiating and running a new venture. Remember to consider the context to ensure the most appropriate and natural usage of this word.

家族の営みは、日々の食事と会話から成り立っている。

The family's daily life is made up of daily meals and conversations.
Sentence Structure
Often used with possessive particles (の) to specify whose activities are being discussed, or followed by particles like を (o) indicating the object of an action related to the activities.

地域社会の営みを支えるボランティア活動。

Volunteer activities that support the endeavors of the local community.
You're most likely to encounter 営み (いとなみ) in contexts that require a more descriptive or reflective tone. It's a word that resonates with deeper meanings about life, work, and purpose. Literature is a prime place; novels, short stories, and essays often use 営み to portray the characters' daily lives, their struggles, and their achievements. For instance, a historical novel might describe the 営み of farmers in a past era, highlighting their connection to the land and the challenges they faced. Academic writing, particularly in sociology, philosophy, or cultural studies, might use 営み to discuss human activities, societal structures, or the nature of work. You might see it in academic papers analyzing the 'life activities' of a particular group or the 'undertakings' of a historical movement. Documentaries and thoughtful journalism can also feature 営み, especially when exploring themes of tradition, community life, or the dedication involved in certain professions. A documentary about traditional crafts, for example, might speak of the artisan's lifelong 営み. In more formal speeches or presentations, especially those touching upon personal growth, career paths, or societal contributions, 営み can be employed to add a layer of gravitas. A speaker might reflect on the importance of one's professional 営み. While less common in casual conversation, if a discussion turns to the philosophy of work, the meaning of life, or the challenges of maintaining a certain lifestyle, you might hear it. For example, friends might discuss, "最近、自分の営みについて深く考えているんだ" (Saikin, jibun no itonami ni tsuite fukaku kangaete iru n da), meaning "Lately, I've been thinking deeply about my own life's activities." It's also a word that might appear in the lyrics of certain songs, particularly those with introspective or narrative themes. The word's slightly formal and evocative nature makes it suitable for these more considered forms of communication. Think of it as a word you'd find in a well-crafted sentence in a thoughtful article or a character's internal monologue in a literary work. It's a word that invites contemplation and appreciation for the continuous effort involved in living and doing.

この地域の営みは、古くからの伝統に基づいている。

The activities of this region are based on ancient traditions.
Media Examples
Often appears in essays, memoirs, and cultural commentary. You might find it in book reviews discussing the author's portrayal of daily life or in articles about rural communities and their way of life.

芸術家の営みは、創造と探求の連続である。

The artist's endeavor is a continuum of creation and exploration.
When learning to use 営み (いとなみ), learners might make a few common errors. One frequent mistake is to confuse it with simpler terms for 'activity' or 'work' without appreciating its broader, more encompassing nuance. For example, using 営み to describe a single, brief action would be incorrect; it's about ongoing, sustained activities. Another error is to treat it as a verb. While the verb 営む (itonamu) exists, meaning 'to run' or 'to manage,' 営み is strictly a noun referring to the activities themselves. So, saying something like "彼は営みをしている" (Kare wa itonami o shite iru) might sound a bit awkward if you mean 'he is working'; it's better to use 営む or 仕事をする (shigoto o suru). A related mistake is to use 営み in very informal, casual settings where a simpler word would suffice. While not grammatically wrong, it can sound overly formal or even pretentious. For instance, ordering coffee might not typically involve the word 営み. Overusing it or applying it to trivial matters can diminish its impact. Learners might also struggle with the subtle implication of effort and purpose. If the activity lacks continuity or a sense of undertaking, 営み might not be the best fit. For example, randomly browsing the internet for a few minutes isn't usually described as 営み. It's about the 'business of living' or the 'endeavor' of something. Lastly, pronunciation can be a hurdle. Incorrect stress or mispronouncing the syllables, especially the 'n' sound, can lead to misunderstandings. It's important to practice the pronunciation to ensure clarity. For instance, mistaking 営み for a word that sounds similar but has a different meaning could lead to confusion. Always consider the context: is it about the daily life, the ongoing work, or a significant undertaking? This will guide you to the correct usage.

Mistake: 彼は単なる営みをしている。

Incorrect: He is just doing an activity (implying a trivial or single action).
Correction
If referring to a single action, use 行動 (koudou) or 動作 (dousa). If referring to work, use 仕事 (shigoto) or 業務 (gyoumu).

Mistake: 私は毎朝、営みを営んでいます。

Incorrect: I am running my activity every morning (confusing noun with verb and awkward phrasing).
While 営み (いとなみ) carries a unique nuance, several other Japanese words share some semantic overlap, offering alternatives depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.
生活 (せいかつ - seikatsu)
This is the most common word for 'life' or 'living.' It refers to the general state of existence, daily routines, and lifestyle. 営み is often a part of 生活, focusing more on the active 'doing' and 'undertaking' within that life.
Example: 彼は質素な生活を送っている。(He lives a simple life.) vs. 彼の営みは静かで質素だ。(His way of life is quiet and simple.)
仕事 (しごと - shigoto)
This specifically means 'work' or 'job.' 営み can encompass work, but it's broader, including non-work-related daily activities and undertakings.
Example: 彼は新しい仕事を見つけた。(He found a new job.) vs. 彼の営みは、地域社会に貢献することだ。(His undertaking is to contribute to the local community.)
事業 (じぎょう - jigyou)
This term refers to an 'enterprise,' 'business,' or a significant 'undertaking.' 営み can be used to describe the activities within a 事業, but 営み itself can be much smaller in scale and scope.
Example: その事業は成功した。(That enterprise was successful.) vs. 彼の営みは、小さな工房でのものづくりだ。(His endeavor is craftsmanship in a small workshop.)
活動 (かつどう - katsudou)
This is a general word for 'activity.' While 営み is a type of activity, 活動 is much broader and can refer to any action or movement. 営み implies a more sustained, purposeful, and often daily process.
Example: 彼は多くの活動をしている。(He is engaged in many activities.) vs. 彼の営みは、持続可能な農業の実践だ。(His endeavor is the practice of sustainable agriculture.)
暮らし (くらし - kurashi)
Similar to 生活, this means 'living' or 'way of life.' It often has a more personal and everyday feel. 営み can be seen as the active pursuits within one's 暮らし.
Example: 都会での暮らしは忙しい。(Life in the city is busy.) vs. 彼の営みは、自然と共に生きることだ。(His endeavor is to live in harmony with nature.)

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The kanji 営 itself is composed of two parts: 'grass' (艹) on top and 'to be busy' (塋 - which is related to 'to build' or 'to cultivate') underneath. This suggests an idea of active, perhaps laborious, work related to sustenance or building. The term 営み often evokes this sense of diligent, ongoing work.

Guide de prononciation

UK /iˈtɒnami/
US /iˈtɒnami/
The primary stress falls on the second syllable, 'to'.
Rime avec
tome foam home roam dome gnome comb loam
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing the 'i' at the beginning as a long 'ee' sound.
  • Incorrectly stressing the final syllable.
  • Not clearly articulating the 'n' sound.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

At the B1 level, learners can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters. '営み' appears in contexts related to daily life, work, and personal endeavors, which are familiar topics. Understanding its nuance requires careful reading and attention to context.

Écriture 3/5

Producing sentences with '営み' accurately requires understanding its nuanced meaning and appropriate usage. Learners at B1 can produce simple connected text, but using this word effectively in writing might challenge them to go beyond basic vocabulary.

Expression orale 3/5

Using '営み' in spontaneous speech requires a good grasp of its meaning and context. Learners at B1 can describe experiences, but incorporating a word with this level of nuance might require conscious effort and practice.

Écoute 3/5

Understanding '営み' in spoken Japanese requires familiarity with its pronunciation and common contexts. At B1, learners can deal with most situations, but understanding this word in faster or more complex speech might be challenging.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

生活 (せいかつ - seikatsu) 仕事 (しごと - shigoto) 活動 (かつどう - katsudou) 毎日 (まいにち - mainichi) する (suru)

Apprends ensuite

営む (いとなむ - itonamu) 生業 (なりわい - nariyai) 事業 (じぎょう - jigyou) 所業 (しょぎょう - shogyou) 無為 (むい - mui)

Avancé

矜持 (きょうじ - kyouji) 精励 (せいれい - seirei) 専念 (せんなん - sennen) 精進 (しょうじん - shoujin) 志 (こころざし - kokorozashi)

Grammaire à connaître

Using の (no) to indicate possession or attribution with nouns.

家族の営み (kazoku no itonami) - the family's activities. Here, 'no' connects 'family' to 'activities'.

Using particles like を (o) and は (wa) to mark the object and topic of a sentence.

営みを大切にする (itonami o taisetsu ni suru) - to cherish one's activities. 'o' marks 'itonami' as the direct object. 営みは大切だ (itonami wa taisetsu da) - Activities are important. 'wa' marks 'itonami' as the topic.

The use of ている (te iru) form to indicate ongoing actions or states.

彼は営みを続けている (Kare wa itonami o tsuzukete iru) - He is continuing his activities. This shows the ongoing nature of the '営み'.

Connecting clauses with particles like で (de) or と (to).

静かで質素な営み (shizuka de shisso na itonami) - quiet and simple activities. 'de' connects the two adjectives modifying 'itonami'.

The use of the formal copula である (de aru) in written or formal contexts.

芸術家の営みは、創造と探求の連続である。(The artist's endeavor is a continuum of creation and exploration.)

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Exemples par niveau

1

日々の営みを大切にしています。

I cherish my daily activities.

日々の (hibi no) means 'daily'. 営み (itonami) is the noun for activities/life's undertakings. を (o) is the direct object particle. 大切にしています (taisetsu ni shite imasu) means 'am cherishing' or 'am valuing'.

2

農家の営みは自然と共にあった。

The farmer's endeavors were in harmony with nature.

農家 (nouka) means 'farmer'. の (no) is the possessive particle. 営み (itonami) is the noun. は (wa) is the topic particle. 自然 (shizen) means 'nature'. と共に (to tomo ni) means 'together with' or 'in harmony with'. あった (atta) is the past tense of 'to be'.

3

この営みは、多くの人々の支えによって成り立っている。

This undertaking is supported by many people.

この (kono) means 'this'. 営み (itonami) is the noun. は (wa) is the topic particle. 多くの (ooku no) means 'many'. 人々 (hitobito) means 'people'. の (no) is the possessive particle. 支え (sasae) means 'support'. によって (ni yotte) means 'by' or 'due to'. 成り立っている (naritattte iru) means 'is established' or 'is composed of'.

4

地域社会の営みを支えるボランティア活動。

Volunteer activities that support the endeavors of the local community.

地域社会 (chiiki shakai) means 'local community'. の (no) is the possessive particle. 営み (itonami) is the noun. を (o) is the direct object particle. 支える (sasaeru) means 'to support'. ボランティア活動 (borantia katsudou) means 'volunteer activities'.

5

芸術家の営みは、創造と探求の連続である。

The artist's endeavor is a continuum of creation and exploration.

芸術家 (geijutsuka) means 'artist'. の (no) is the possessive particle. 営み (itonami) is the noun. は (wa) is the topic particle. 創造 (souzou) means 'creation'. と (to) means 'and'. 探求 (tankyuu) means 'exploration'. の (no) is the possessive particle. 連続 (renzoku) means 'continuum' or 'series'. である (de aru) is a formal way of saying 'is'.

6

彼の営みは、静かで質素だ。

His way of life is quiet and simple.

彼 (kare) means 'he'. の (no) is the possessive particle. 営み (itonami) is the noun. は (wa) is the topic particle. 静か (shizuka) means 'quiet'. で (de) connects adjectives. 質素 (shisso) means 'simple' or 'frugal'. だ (da) is a plain form of 'is'.

7

森の営みは神秘的だ。

The activities of the forest are mysterious.

森 (mori) means 'forest'. の (no) is the possessive particle. 営み (itonami) is the noun. は (wa) is the topic particle. 神秘的 (shinpiteki) means 'mysterious'. だ (da) is a plain form of 'is'.

8

家族の営みは、日々の食事と会話から成り立っている。

The family's daily life is made up of daily meals and conversations.

家族 (kazoku) means 'family'. の (no) is the possessive particle. 営み (itonami) is the noun. は (wa) is the topic particle. 日々 (hibi) means 'daily'. の (no) is the possessive particle. 食事 (shokuji) means 'meal'. と (to) means 'and'. 会話 (kaiwa) means 'conversation'. から (kara) means 'from'. 成り立っている (naritatte iru) means 'is composed of' or 'is made up of'.

Collocations courantes

日々の営み
営みを営む
営みと生活
営みの一部
営みの場
営みの本質
営み続ける
営みへの情熱
営みと休息
営みの中で

Phrases Courantes

日々の営み

— Daily activities; the routine of everyday life.

日々の営みを大切にすることは、心の健康に繋がる。(Valuing one's daily activities leads to mental well-being.)

営みを営む

— To conduct one's activities; to live one's life; to manage one's business.

彼は静かな田舎で、自給自足の営みを営んでいる。(He is living a self-sufficient life in a quiet countryside.)

営みの一部

— A part of one's activities or life's work.

このボランティア活動は、私の人生の営みの一部です。(This volunteer activity is a part of my life's endeavors.)

営みの中で

— In the midst of one's activities; during the course of one's life's work.

人生の営みの中で、多くのことを学んだ。(I learned many things during the course of my life.)

営みへの情熱

— Passion for one's endeavors or life's work.

彼女は芸術への営みへの情熱を燃やし続けている。(She continues to burn with passion for her artistic endeavors.)

営みと休息

— The balance between activity and rest.

健全な営みと休息のバランスが重要です。(A healthy balance between activity and rest is important.)

営みの場

— A place where activities or undertakings take place.

このカフェは、学生たちの学びの営みの場となっている。(This cafe has become a place for students' learning activities.)

営み続ける

— To continue one's activities or endeavors persistently.

彼は生涯、研究という営みを続け続けた。(He continued the endeavor of research throughout his life.)

営みの本質

— The essential nature or core of one's activities or life's work.

私たちは、営みの本質を理解しようと努めた。(We strove to understand the essence of our activities.)

営みへの感謝

— Gratitude for one's life's work or daily activities.

日々の営みへの感謝を忘れてはならない。(We must not forget gratitude for our daily activities.)

Souvent confondu avec

営み vs 営む (itonamu)

This is the verb form, meaning 'to run,' 'to manage,' or 'to conduct.' 営み is the noun referring to the activities themselves. For example, '彼は店を営む' (He runs a shop) uses the verb, while '彼の営みは順調だ' (His activities are proceeding smoothly) uses the noun.

営み vs 事業 (jigyou)

While 営み can refer to the activities of a 事業 (enterprise/business), 事業 itself is the venture or undertaking, whereas 営み is the ongoing process or daily work within it. A 事業 might involve many different 営み.

営み vs 生活 (seikatsu)

生活 is a broader term for 'life' or 'living.' 営み focuses more on the active, purposeful 'doing' and 'undertaking' that constitutes one's life or a specific endeavor.

Expressions idiomatiques

"営みは続く"

— Life goes on; the activities of life continue regardless of circumstances.

たとえ困難があっても、営みは続くのだと彼は悟った。

Reflective
"静かな営み"

— A quiet, unassuming way of life or daily routine.

都会の喧騒を離れ、静かな営みを送りたい。

Descriptive
"日々の営みを支える"

— To support oneself or one's family through daily work or activities.

彼は家族のために、地道な営みを支え続けた。

General
"営みを見出す"

— To find meaning or purpose in one's activities or life.

人は、自分の営みを見出すことで成長する。

Philosophical
"営みへの献身"

— Dedication to one's life's work or chosen activities.

彼女の営みへの献身は、多くの人々に感銘を与えた。

Admiring
"営みにかける"

— To invest time and effort into one's activities or undertakings.

彼はそのプロジェクトの営みにかける情熱を隠さなかった。

Passionate
"営みと向き合う"

— To confront or face the realities of one's life or work.

人生の岐路で、自分の営みと向き合うことが求められる。

Introspective
"営みの喜び"

— The joy derived from one's activities or life's work.

地道な営みの中にも、確かな喜びがある。

Appreciative
"営みから学ぶ"

— To learn from one's experiences and daily activities.

日々の営みから学ぶ姿勢が大切だ。

Didactic
"営みの証"

— Evidence or proof of one's efforts or life's work.

この作品は、彼の長年の営みの証である。

Testimonial

Facile à confondre

営み vs 活動 (katsudou)

Both words refer to 'activities.'

活動 is a general term for any action or movement, whereas 営み implies sustained, purposeful, and often daily activities that constitute a life or a significant undertaking. 営み carries a nuance of continuity and effort.

地域社会の<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>活動</mark>に参加する。(Participate in community activities.) vs. 地域社会の<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>営み</mark>を支える。(Support the endeavors of the local community.)

営み vs 暮らし (kurashi)

Both relate to 'living' or 'way of life.'

暮らし is more about the general state of living, daily existence, and lifestyle, often with a personal feel. 営み refers more specifically to the active pursuits, work, and undertakings that make up that way of life, emphasizing the 'doing' aspect.

都会での<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>暮らし</mark>は忙しい。(Life in the city is busy.) vs. 彼の<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>営み</mark>は、自然と共に生きることだ。(His endeavor is to live in harmony with nature.)

営み vs 生業 (nariyai)

Both relate to livelihood and occupation.

生業 specifically refers to one's 'livelihood' or 'occupation,' often implying a traditional or inherited profession pursued for sustenance. 営み is broader and can encompass any sustained, purposeful activity, whether it's one's livelihood or not, and it emphasizes the ongoing process itself.

彼の<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>生業</mark>は漁業だ。(His livelihood is fishing.) vs. 彼の<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>営み</mark>は、静かな工房でのものづくりだ。(His endeavor is craftsmanship in a quiet workshop.)

営み vs 仕事 (shigoto)

Both can refer to work.

仕事 is a direct translation for 'work' or 'job,' often referring to a specific employment or task. 営み is much broader; it includes work but also encompasses all the daily activities, undertakings, and the general process of living and doing that define one's existence or a particular venture.

彼は新しい<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仕事</mark>を探している。(He is looking for a new job.) vs. 彼の<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>営み</mark>は、地域社会に貢献することだ。(His undertaking is to contribute to the local community.)

営み vs 無為 (mui)

It's an antonym and conceptually related through contrast.

無為 means 'inaction,' 'idleness,' or 'doing nothing.' It is the direct opposite of 営み, which implies active engagement, continuous effort, and purposeful undertaking.

彼は<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>無為</mark>な時間を過ごすことを嫌った。(He disliked spending idle time.) vs. 彼は日々の<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>営み</mark>に情熱を燃やした。(He burned with passion for his daily activities.)

Structures de phrases

Beginner

Noun + の + 営み

私の営みは読書です。(Watashi no itonami wa dokusho desu.) - My activity is reading.

Beginner

営み + は + Noun + です/だ

日々の営みは大切です。(Hibi no itonami wa taisetsu desu.) - Daily activities are important.

Intermediate

Noun + の + 営み + を + Verb

家族の営みを支える。(Kazoku no itonami o sasaeru.) - To support the family's activities.

Intermediate

Adjective + 営み

静かな営み。(Shizuka na itonami.) - Quiet activities.

Intermediate

営み + の中で + Verb Phrase

営みの中で成長する。(Itonami no naka de seichou suru.) - To grow within one's activities.

Advanced

Noun + の + 営み + は + Noun + である

芸術家の営みは、創造と探求の連続である。(Geijutsuka no itonami wa, souzou to tankyuu no renzoku de aru.) - The artist's endeavor is a continuum of creation and exploration.

Advanced

営み + への + Noun/Verb (etc.)

営みへの献身。(Itonami e no kenshin.) - Dedication to one's endeavors.

Advanced

営み + から + Verb Phrase

営みから教訓を得る。(Itonami kara kyoukun o eru.) - To gain a lesson from one's activities.

Famille de mots

Noms

営み (いとなみ)
営み (いとなみ) - in the sense of 'undertaking' or 'enterprise' (less common as a standalone noun distinct from the verb's action)

Verbes

営む (いとなむ - itonamu): to run, to manage, to conduct, to live (a life)

Apparenté

生活 (せいかつ - seikatsu)
事業 (じぎょう - jigyou)
活動 (かつどう - katsudou)
生業 (なりわい - nariyai)
暮らし (くらし - kurashi)
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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Medium. While not an everyday casual word, it appears frequently enough in thoughtful contexts.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using 営み for a single, brief action. → For single actions, use words like 行動 (koudou) or 動作 (dousa).

    営み implies sustained, ongoing activities or undertakings. Describing a quick, isolated action with 営み would be incorrect and misrepresent its meaning.

  • Confusing the noun 営み (itonami) with the verb 営む (itonamu). → Use 営む for actions like 'to run a business' or 'to live a life.' Use 営み for the activities themselves.

    For example, '彼は店を営む' (He runs a shop) is correct. Saying '彼の営みは店を営むことだ' (His activities are running a shop) is redundant; it's better to say '彼の営みは店での仕事だ' (His activities are work at the shop) or focus on the *process* of running the shop as his 営み.

  • Using 営み in very casual or slang contexts. → Opt for simpler or more contextually appropriate words like 生活 (seikatsu) or 仕事 (shigoto) in informal settings.

    While not strictly grammatically wrong, using 営み in very casual conversation can sound overly formal or even pretentious, diminishing its intended nuance.

  • Treating 営み as a direct synonym for 'activity' without considering the nuance of continuity and purpose. → Ensure the context implies sustained effort and a sense of undertaking, not just any random activity.

    Words like 活動 (katsudou) are more general for 'activity.' 営み specifically refers to the ongoing 'business of living' or the 'endeavor' of something.

  • Mispronouncing the word, particularly the stress or the 'n' sound. → Practice the pronunciation 'i-to-NA-mi' with the stress on the second syllable.

    Incorrect pronunciation can lead to misunderstandings, as similar-sounding words might exist with different meanings. Clear articulation is key.

Astuces

Focus on Continuity and Purpose

When using 営み, always consider if the activity you are describing is ongoing and has a sense of purpose. It's about the 'business of living' or the 'undertaking' of something, not just a single, isolated action.

Master the Rhythm

Practice saying 'i-to-na-mi' with the stress on the second syllable ('to'). Clear pronunciation will help native speakers understand your intended meaning, especially since the word has a specific nuance.

Look for Reflective Contexts

You'll often find 営み in writing or speech that is more reflective, descriptive, or philosophical. Pay attention to these contexts to better grasp its usage and emotional resonance.

Distinguish from Similar Words

Understand the differences between 営み and words like 生活 (seikatsu), 仕事 (shigoto), and 活動 (katsudou). 営み is more about the active, purposeful undertaking within one's life or venture.

Use in Your Own Writing

Try to incorporate 営み into your own Japanese writing, whether it's a journal entry or a short story. Describing your own daily activities or the endeavors of characters will solidify your understanding.

Connect with Related Terms

Explore related words like the verb 営む (itonamu) and other terms for livelihood and activity. Understanding the word family can deepen your comprehension.

Create Mnemonics

Develop personal mnemonics or visual associations to help remember the word and its meaning. Connecting it to sounds or images can make it more accessible.

Appreciate Cultural Nuance

Recognize that the concept of 営み aligns with Japanese cultural values of diligence, continuous effort, and finding meaning in one's work and life. This cultural context enriches the understanding of the word.

Engage with Exercises

Actively participate in fill-in-the-blank, multiple-choice, and sentence-building exercises to test and reinforce your knowledge of 営み.

Listen Actively

When watching Japanese dramas, movies, or listening to podcasts, actively listen for the word 営み and try to infer its meaning from the surrounding dialogue and context.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Imagine someone named 'Tony' (トニー - Tonī) who is always busy with his daily 'activities' (営み). He's always 'toning' (トニング - toning) up his life with constant work. So, 'Tony's 'activities' are his 営み.

Association visuelle

Picture a busy bee diligently working in its hive, collecting nectar and building honeycomb. The bee's constant, purposeful work represents its '営み' (itonami).

Word Web

Daily Life Work Undertaking Livelihood Routine Endeavor Process Activity Sustenance Purposeful Action Farming Craftsmanship Business Operations Personal Growth Community Support

Défi

Try to describe your own daily routine or the work you do using the word 営み. For example, 'My morning 営み includes making coffee and reading the news.' Or, 'The 営み of this small cafe is to provide a cozy atmosphere for its customers.'

Origine du mot

The word 営み (いとなみ) originates from the verb 営む (いとなむ - itonamu), which itself has roots in older Japanese. The kanji 営 (ei) originally meant 'to build,' 'to construct,' or 'to manage.' Over time, the verb 営む came to mean 'to conduct,' 'to manage,' 'to run (a business),' and also 'to live' or 'to carry on one's life.' The noun 営み is derived from this verb, representing the action or the result of 'conducting' or 'living.'

Sens originel : The original sense of the kanji 営 (ei) was related to construction and management, implying organized effort to build or maintain something.

Japonic (Japanese)

Contexte culturel

The word 営み is generally neutral and can be used to describe any sustained activity, from personal hobbies to professional careers. It does not carry inherent positive or negative connotations, but the context in which it is used will determine the sentiment. It is a word that respects effort and continuity.

In English-speaking cultures, we might use phrases like 'daily grind,' 'life's work,' 'undertakings,' or 'daily routine.' However, '営み' often carries a more profound and integrated sense of purpose and continuity that is uniquely Japanese.

The concept of 'shokunin' (職人) or artisan, who dedicates their life to mastering a craft through continuous '営み'. Traditional Japanese arts and crafts, where the preservation and practice of skills are seen as a lifelong '営み'. The philosophy of 'wabi-sabi,' which appreciates the beauty of imperfection and transience, can be seen as a way of embracing the natural flow of life's '営み'.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Daily life and routines

  • 日々の営み
  • 営みの中で
  • 営みと生活

Work and professional endeavors

  • 事業の営み
  • 営みへの情熱
  • 営み続ける

Personal pursuits and hobbies

  • 趣味の営み
  • 営みの一部
  • 営みを見出す

Community and societal contributions

  • 地域社会の営み
  • 営みを支える
  • 営みの場

Philosophical reflections on life

  • 営みの本質
  • 営みから学ぶ
  • 営みへの献身

Amorces de conversation

"What are some of your daily '営み' that you find most fulfilling?"

"How do you balance your '営み' with the need for rest and relaxation?"

"Can you describe a time when your '営み' faced a significant challenge?"

"What does the term '営み' mean to you personally?"

"Are there any aspects of your '営み' that you are particularly proud of?"

Sujets d'écriture

Reflect on the '営み' that occupy most of your time. Are they aligned with your values and goals?

Write about a significant '営み' in your life, past or present. What did you learn from it?

Imagine your ideal '営み'. What would it look like, and what steps could you take to move towards it?

Consider the '営み' of people in different professions or lifestyles. What commonalities and differences do you observe?

Describe a moment when you felt a deep sense of purpose or satisfaction derived from your '営み'.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

生活 (seikatsu) is a general term for 'life' or 'living,' encompassing one's lifestyle, daily routines, and overall existence. 営み (itonami), on the other hand, focuses more on the active, purposeful 'doing' and 'undertaking' within that life. It emphasizes the continuous effort and process involved in one's activities, whether they are personal, professional, or related to a specific endeavor. Think of 生活 as the state of being, and 営み as the active engagement within that state.

Yes, 営み can be used for hobbies if they are pursued with a sense of dedication, continuity, and purpose. For example, if someone spends a significant amount of time and effort on their painting or gardening, it could be described as their 'hobby's 営み' (趣味の営み - shumi no itonami). It implies more than just casual pastime; it suggests a committed pursuit.

営み is generally considered to be more formal and literary than everyday words like 生活 (seikatsu) or 仕事 (shigoto). It carries a nuanced meaning of sustained effort and purpose, making it suitable for reflective writing, essays, or discussions about the nature of life and work. While it can be used in neutral contexts, it's less common in very casual, everyday chatter unless the topic specifically calls for it.

The related verb is 営む (いとなむ - itonamu). It means 'to run,' 'to manage,' or 'to conduct' an activity, business, or even one's life. For example, '彼は静かな生活を営んでいる' (Kare wa shizuka na seikatsu o itonande iru) means 'He is living a quiet life.' 営み is the noun form that describes the activities themselves.

Yes, it can. 営み can be used poetically or descriptively to refer to the natural processes and activities of living things or ecosystems. For example, '森の営み' (mori no itonami) refers to the activities and processes within a forest, highlighting the continuous, natural cycles of life there.

活動 (katsudou) is a general term for 'activity' and can refer to any action or movement. 営み (itonami) implies a more sustained, purposeful, and ongoing process that constitutes a life, a livelihood, or a significant undertaking. While all 営み are types of 活動, not all 活動 are necessarily 営み. 営み carries a stronger connotation of continuity, effort, and purpose.

Generally, no. 営み is a neutral term that describes purposeful activities. However, the context can imply whether these activities are viewed positively or negatively. For instance, if referring to someone's harmful or unethical 'undertakings,' the word 所業 (shogyou) might be more appropriate, as it often carries a negative connotation. 営み itself is about the engagement in activities.

Traditional Japanese culture highly values dedication to one's craft or profession, which can be seen as a form of 営み. Examples include the lifelong practice of martial arts, the meticulous cultivation of gardens, the art of tea ceremony, or the dedicated work of artisans (shokunin) in preserving traditional crafts. These are all seen as meaningful, sustained activities.

Start by describing your own daily routines or hobbies using the word. For example, 'My morning 営み involves exercising.' Then, try to describe the work or activities of others, like 'The farmer's 営み is tied to the seasons.' Reading literature and essays that use the word will also help you see it in context.

The core meaning of 営み is the sustained, purposeful activity that constitutes a life, a livelihood, or a significant undertaking. It emphasizes continuity, effort, and the ongoing process of living and doing.

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