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A2 verb #4,000 le plus courant 12 min de lecture

感動する

kando suru Top 4,000

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces 感動する en 30 secondes

Explication 感動する in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn 'kandō suru' as a basic way to express that you like something very much in an emotional way. You might use it after watching a movie or seeing a beautiful place. Focus on the simple past tense: 'kandō shimashita' (I was moved). At this stage, don't worry too much about the deep cultural nuances; just use it when you see something that makes you feel 'Wow' in a heartfelt way. Remember the particle 'ni' goes after the thing that moved you. For example, 'Eiga ni kandō shimashita' (I was moved by the movie). It is a great way to show enthusiasm and politeness when someone shows you something they care about. Even with limited Japanese, saying 'Kandō shimashita!' with a sincere smile communicates a lot of meaning and builds a bridge between you and the person you are talking to. It is one of the most useful 'reaction' words in your early vocabulary.

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At the A2 level, you begin to use 'kandō suru' to describe more specific experiences and to explain *why* you were moved. You can start using adverbs like 'totemo' (very) or 'sugoku' (very - casual) to modify the verb. You should also understand the difference between 'kandō suru' (the verb) and 'kandō-teki' (the adjective meaning 'moving'). For example, you can say 'Kandō-teki na hanashi' (A moving story). This level also involves understanding that 'kandō suru' is often used for human efforts, like a difficult sports match or a student's hard work. You might use it in a simple journal entry: 'Kinō, tomodachi no konsāto ni ikimashita. Totemo kandō shimashita.' (Yesterday, I went to my friend's concert. I was very moved.) This shows you are connecting emotions to specific events in your life.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'kandō suru' in various forms, including the continuous form 'kandō shite iru' and the causative 'kandō saseru' (to move someone). You will start to encounter it in more complex reading materials, such as news articles about social issues or short stories. You should understand that 'kandō' isn't just for 'happy' things; it can be for sad things that are beautiful or inspiring. For instance, a story about a person helping others despite their own hardship is a classic 'kandō' scenario. You can also start using it with 'te-form' to connect reasons: 'Kare no yasashisa ni kandō shite, namida ga demashita' (I was moved by his kindness and cried). This level requires a more nuanced understanding of when 'kandō' is appropriate versus 'odoroku' (surprised) or 'kanshin' (impressed by skill).

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At the B2 level, you should explore the deeper cultural and philosophical implications of 'kandō.' You can use it to discuss Japanese aesthetics, such as 'Mono no aware' (the pathos of things). You will also learn more formal synonyms like 'kanmei o ukeru' (to be deeply impressed/inspired) and 'kokoro o utareru' (to be struck to the heart). At this stage, you should be able to write detailed reviews of books or films using 'kandō' to describe the emotional arc of the narrative. You will also notice how 'kandō' is used in corporate or political contexts to build rapport. You should be able to distinguish between genuine 'kandō' and 'kandō no oshiuri' (pushing emotions on others/forced sentimentality), a term used to criticize overly dramatic media. Your usage should reflect a balance between expressing emotion and maintaining the appropriate social register.

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At the C1 level, your understanding of 'kandō' should be near-native. You can use it to analyze literature, discussing how an author uses specific techniques to 'kandō saseru' the reader. You will understand the subtle differences between 'kandō,' 'kangeki,' and 'kanmei' in high-level discourse. You should be able to use the word in formal speeches, such as a wedding toast or a professional tribute, where the emotional weight must be perfectly tuned to the occasion. You will also recognize the word's role in the 'Kandō Sangyō' (Inspiration Industry), analyzing how Japanese businesses aim to create emotional value. At this level, you can also use more poetic expressions like 'mune ga atsuku naru' or 'kotoba ni dekinai hodo no kandō' (an emotion beyond words) to describe complex emotional states with precision and elegance.

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At the C2 level, you possess a masterly grasp of 'kandō' and its place in the Japanese psyche. You can engage in deep philosophical debates about the nature of emotion and its expression in Japanese society compared to other cultures. You understand how 'kandō' functions as a social glue, creating shared experiences that transcend individual differences. You can identify and use archaic or highly specialized variations of the term found in classical literature or high-level academic texts. Your use of 'kandō' is not just about your own feelings, but about navigating the complex emotional expectations of any given situation. You can critique the 'commercialization of kandō' in modern media with sophistication. Essentially, you use the word with the same nuance, irony, or sincerity as a highly educated native speaker, fully aware of its historical weight and contemporary resonance.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

感動する en 30 secondes

A common verb for being moved or deeply impressed emotionally.
Used with the particle 'ni' to indicate the source of the emotion.
Appropriate for movies, sports, kindness, and beautiful scenery.
Central to Japanese culture's value on sincere emotional resonance.

The Japanese verb 感動する (kandō suru) is a profound expression that transcends simple happiness or excitement. It describes a state where one's heart is deeply moved or stirred by an external stimulus, such as a beautiful piece of art, a selfless act of kindness, or a breathtaking natural landscape. In English, we often translate this as 'to be moved' or 'to be deeply impressed,' but the Japanese term carries a specific weight of emotional resonance that is central to Japanese aesthetics and social interaction.

Emotional Depth: Unlike 'happy' (ureshii) or 'fun' (tanoshii), kandō suru implies a physical and spiritual reaction. It is the feeling that brings a lump to your throat or tears to your eyes. It is often used when witnessing human achievement or the beauty of the fleeting moment.
Social Context: In Japanese culture, expressing that you were 'moved' by someone's effort is a high form of praise. It acknowledges not just the result, but the spirit (kokoro) behind the action. You will hear it at graduation ceremonies, weddings, and after watching a particularly poignant film.
Grammatical Connection: It is a Suru-verb, meaning it combines the noun 'kandō' (emotion/inspiration) with 'suru' (to do). It almost always takes the particle 'ni' to indicate the source of the emotion: [Source] ni kandō suru.

彼のスピーチに非常に感動しました。(Kare no supīchi ni hijō ni kandō shimashita.)
— Translation: I was very moved by his speech.

To understand the full scope of kandō suru, one must look at the kanji. 感 (kan) means 'feeling' or 'sensation,' and 動 (dō) means 'motion' or 'change.' Together, they literally represent the heart being set into motion. This is why the word is so frequently used in the context of the arts. When a Japanese person watches a sunset and says 'kandō shita,' they aren't just saying it's pretty; they are saying the beauty has shifted something inside them. This concept is closely linked to the traditional Japanese aesthetic of 'Mono no aware'—the pathos of things or a sensitivity to ephemera.

Furthermore, the word is ubiquitous in marketing and media. You will see advertisements promising a 'kandō no taiken' (an experience that will move you). This highlights how much value Japanese society places on emotional resonance. Whether it is a high-tech gadget or a simple loaf of bread, if it can 'move' the consumer, it is considered superior. However, in personal settings, overusing the word can sometimes make one seem overly dramatic, so it is best reserved for moments of genuine impact.

オリンピックの開会式を見て、感動して涙が出ました。(Orinpikku no kaikaishiki o mite, kandō shite namida ga demashita.)
— Translation: I was so moved by watching the Olympic opening ceremony that I cried.

In professional settings, while you might not cry, you can use kandō suru to express admiration for a colleague's dedication or a client's vision. It bridges the gap between professional respect and human connection. It is the verbal equivalent of a deep, sincere bow in response to a masterpiece. By using this word, you are signaling that you are not just an observer, but an active participant in the emotional landscape of the moment.

Mastering the usage of 感動する requires understanding its grammatical structure and the specific particles it demands. As a 'suru' verb, it follows the standard conjugation rules for irregular verbs, but its relationship with the subject and object is unique. In English, we often use the passive voice ('I was moved by...'), but in Japanese, the active form 'kandō suru' is the standard way to express this feeling.

The 'Ni' Particle: The most important rule is that the source of your emotion is marked by 'ni'. For example, 'Eiga ni kandō suru' (I am moved by the movie). Using 'o' is grammatically incorrect because the movie isn't an object you are acting upon; rather, it is the stimulus that affects your heart.
Tense and Aspect: Use 'kandō shita' (past tense) when the experience is over, which is the most common form. Use 'kandō shite iru' (continuous) to describe a state of being currently moved or impressed by a realization or an ongoing event.

そのストーリーの結末に、誰もが感動するでしょう。(Sono sutōrī no ketsumatsu ni, daremo ga kandō suru deshō.)
— Translation: Everyone will likely be moved by the conclusion of that story.

When you want to emphasize the degree of your emotion, you can use adverbs like 'hijō ni' (extremely), 'sugoku' (very - informal), or 'fukaku' (deeply). 'Fukaku kandō suru' is a common collocation used in formal speeches or writing to indicate that the impact reached the depths of one's soul. Conversely, if you want to say something was 'somewhat moving,' you might use 'chotto kandō shita,' though this is less common as the word usually implies a strong reaction.

Let's look at the negative form. 'Kandō shinakatta' means 'I wasn't moved.' This is a strong statement in Japanese, often implying that something expected to be emotional (like a famous movie) failed to touch the speaker. It is more common to use a more neutral expression if you simply didn't find something interesting, but 'kandō shinakatta' specifically addresses the lack of emotional resonance.

親切な対応に感動して、お礼の手紙を書きました。(Shinsetsu na taiō ni kandō shite, orei no tegami o kakimashita.)
— Translation: I was so moved by the kind service that I wrote a thank-you letter.

In causative forms, 'kandō saseru' means 'to move someone else.' This is frequently used by performers, writers, and speakers. 'Kanshuu o kandō saseru' (to move the audience). This form shifts the focus from the internal feeling to the external act of inspiring others. When you are the recipient of this action, you are the one who 'kandō suru.'

You will encounter 感動する in almost every facet of Japanese life, from the high drama of television to the quiet moments of daily conversation. It is a keyword in the Japanese vocabulary of appreciation. If you are in Japan, pay attention to the following contexts, as they are the 'natural habitats' of this word.

Entertainment Reviews: On sites like Amazon Japan or Filmarks (a movie review site), 'kandō shimashita' is the most common phrase used in five-star reviews. It is the ultimate seal of approval for a narrative work.
Sports Commentary: Japanese sports announcers are famous for their emotional delivery. When an underdog wins or an athlete completes a grueling marathon, the announcer will often shout about how much 'kandō' the performance gave to the nation.
TV Variety Shows: Japan has many 'documentary-style' variety segments where they follow people overcoming hardships. The word 'kandō' will be displayed in large, colorful on-screen text (telop) to signal to the audience that they should be feeling moved.

「この映画、本当に感動するから、絶対見て！」(Kono eiga, hontō ni kandō suru kara, zettai mite!)
— Translation: This movie is really moving, so you definitely have to see it!

In everyday life, you might hear a student say it after a school festival or a worker say it after a successful project launch. It is often used with the suffix '-ppanashi,' as in 'kandō-shippanashi' (continuously moved), to describe an experience like a concert where the emotional high never ended. This shows the word's versatility in informal speech.

Another place you'll hear it is in political or corporate speeches. Leaders often aim to 'kandō o ataeru' (give/provide inspiration) to their followers. While this can sometimes feel performative, the use of the word 'kandō' aims to create a sense of unity through shared feeling. It is a powerful tool in the Japanese rhetorical arsenal, focusing on the heart rather than just the mind or the wallet.

「皆さんの努力に、心から感動しました。」(Minasan no doryoku ni, kokoro kara kandō shimashita.)
— Translation: I was moved from the bottom of my heart by everyone's efforts.

Finally, look for it in the titles of books or articles. 'Kandō no jitsuwa' (A moving true story) is a common trope in publishing. By labeling something as 'kandō,' the author is promising an emotional journey. For a learner, recognizing this word is like having a map of the Japanese emotional landscape; it tells you exactly where the heart of the matter lies.

While 感動する is a versatile word, English speakers often fall into a few traps due to direct translation or a misunderstanding of Japanese verb categories. Avoiding these mistakes will make your Japanese sound much more natural and precise.

Mistake 1: Using the 'O' Particle: Many learners say 'Eiga o kandō shimashita.' This is incorrect. 'Kandō suru' describes an internal state triggered by something, not an action performed on an object. Always use 'ni' for the stimulus.
Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Odoroku' (Surprised): In English, 'impressed' can sometimes mean 'surprised by a high standard.' In Japanese, if you are surprised by how big a building is, use 'odoroku.' Use 'kandō suru' only if the building's beauty or history touches your heart.
Mistake 3: Describing Objects as 'Kandō suru': You cannot say 'Kono eiga wa kandō suru' to mean 'This movie is moving.' That sentence would mean 'This movie feels moved' (as if the movie itself had a heart). To describe the movie, use 'kandō-teki' (moving) or 'kandō suru eiga' (a movie that makes one feel moved).

✖ 私はその歌を感動した。
〇私はその歌に感動した。
— Explanation: Use 'ni' to indicate what moved you.

Another nuance to watch out for is the difference between 'kandō' and 'kanshin.' 'Kanshin suru' means to be impressed by someone's skill or logic in a more intellectual way. If you see a perfectly organized spreadsheet, you 'kanshin' (admire the skill). If you see a spreadsheet that was painstakingly created to help a charity, you 'kandō' (are moved by the intent). Using 'kandō' for purely technical achievements can sound a bit hyperbolic.

Finally, be careful with the passive voice. While 'kandō saserareta' (was made to feel moved) is grammatically possible, it sounds very forced and is rarely used. Japanese speakers naturally use the active 'kandō shita' to describe their own feelings. Over-relying on passive structures is a common 'translation-ese' error that learners make when trying to mirror English 'I was moved.'

✖ その景色は感動する。
〇その景色は感動的だ。
— Explanation: Use the adjective form to describe the object.

In summary, focus on the 'ni' particle, use the active voice for your own feelings, and ensure the context is emotional rather than just intellectual. By keeping these points in mind, you will avoid the most common pitfalls and communicate your feelings with the depth they deserve.

While 感動する is the 'go-to' word for being moved, Japanese offers a rich palette of synonyms that allow for more specific nuances. Choosing the right one can elevate your Japanese from functional to expressive.

感激する (Kangeki suru): Often used interchangeably with kandō, but 'kangeki' leans more towards 'deep gratitude' or 'being overwhelmed with joy.' You might 'kangeki' when receiving an unexpected, thoughtful gift.
感銘を受ける (Kanmei o ukeru): A more formal, literary expression. It literally means 'to receive an impression.' This is used for life-changing speeches, great literature, or the words of a mentor that leave a lasting mark on your life.
心を打たれる (Kokoro o utareru): Literally 'to have one's heart struck.' This is very similar to 'kandō suru' but emphasizes the sudden, impactful nature of the emotion. It's often used for a single, powerful moment or gesture.

彼の誠実な態度に、深く感銘を受けました。(Kare no seijitsu na taidō ni, fukaku kanmei o ukemashita.)
— Translation: I was deeply impressed/inspired by his sincere attitude.

For less intense situations, you might use '感心する' (kanshin suru), which we discussed earlier as being more about intellectual admiration. If you want to describe a physical reaction without using the word 'moved,' you could say '鳥肌が立つ' (torihada ga tatsu), which means 'to get goosebumps.' This is a very common way to express that a performance or a moment was so 'kandō-teki' that it caused a physical response.

In slang or very casual speech, younger people might use 'yabai' to mean they are moved, but this is highly contextual. A more specific modern term is 'tōtoi' (precious/sacred), often used by fans of anime or idols to describe a moment that is so moving it feels divine. However, for a learner, sticking to 'kandō suru' and its formal variants is the safest and most respected path.

その美しい旋律に、思わず胸が熱くなりました。(Sono utsukushii senritsu ni, omowazu mune ga atsuku narimashita.)
— Translation: My heart grew hot (I was moved to tears) by that beautiful melody.

Finally, 'mune ga atsuku naru' (one's chest becomes hot) is a beautiful idiomatic alternative. It describes the physical sensation of being about to cry from emotion. It is often used in novels and personal essays to describe 'kandō' in a more sensory way. By learning these alternatives, you can tailor your expression to the exact 'temperature' and 'texture' of your emotions.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The character 動 (dō) was originally used for physical movement (like a heavy object moving). Its use in 'kandō' metaphorically suggests that a powerful emotion is heavy enough or strong enough to physically move the 'still' heart.

Guide de prononciation

UK kandō sɯᵝɾɯ

US kɑndoʊ suːruː

The pitch accent is usually on 'do', making it 'kan-DŌ suru'.

Rime avec

Sandō (approval) Handō (reaction) Bandō (Bando name) Kandō (impression) Zandō (remnant road) Mandō (ten thousand lights) Randō (random) Tandō (gallbladder - different kanji)

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'dō' as a short 'do'.
Making the 'r' in 'suru' too heavy like an English 'r'.
Forgetting the nasal 'n' sound.
Putting the stress on 'kan'.
Merging 'suru' into 'su' in formal speech.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

The kanji are common but require N3 level knowledge for fluid reading.

Écriture 3/5

The kanji for 'kan' and 'dō' have several strokes but are essential to learn.

Expression orale 2/5

The word is very easy to use in daily conversation as a reaction.

Écoute 1/5

The word is very distinct and frequently used in media.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

心 (kokoro) 動く (ugoku) 感じる (kanjiru) 映画 (eiga) 歌 (uta)

Apprends ensuite

感銘 (kanmei) 感激 (kangeki) 感謝 (kansha) 影響 (eikyō) 共感 (kyōkan)

Avancé

琴線に触れる (kinsen ni fureru) 畏敬の念 (ikei no nen) カタルシス (katarushisu) 情緒 (jōcho)

Grammaire à connaître

Suru-verbs

感動する (kandō suru), 勉強する (benkyō suru)

The 'Ni' particle for stimulus

音楽に感動する (moved by music)

Te-form for reasons

美しくて感動した (moved because it was beautiful)

Adjectives ending in -teki

感動的な話 (a moving story)

Causative form (saseru)

人を感動させる (to move people)

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Exemples par niveau

この映画に感動しました。

I was moved by this movie.

Uses 'ni' to mark the movie as the source of emotion.

彼の歌に感動しました。

I was moved by his song.

Past tense 'shimashita' for a completed experience.

とても感動しました！

I was very moved!

Adverb 'totemo' adds emphasis.

あの景色に感動した。

I was moved by that scenery.

Informal past tense 'shita'.

あなたの言葉に感動しました。

I was moved by your words.

Abstract noun 'kotoba' (words) as the stimulus.

物語に感動しましたか？

Were you moved by the story?

Question form using 'ka'.

ダンスを見て感動しました。

I saw the dance and was moved.

Te-form 'mite' connects the action and the feeling.

お母さんの手紙に感動した。

I was moved by my mother's letter.

Possessive 'no' connects mother and letter.

一生懸命走る姿に感動しました。

I was moved by the sight of them running with all their might.

A whole phrase 'hashiru sugata' acts as the stimulus.

この本はとても感動的です。

This book is very moving.

Uses the adjective form 'kandō-teki'.

子供たちのスピーチに感動して泣きました。

I was moved by the children's speeches and cried.

Te-form 'kandō shite' shows the reason for crying.

昨日のコンサート、本当に感動したね。

Yesterday's concert was really moving, wasn't it?

Sentence ending 'ne' seeks agreement.

親切にしてもらって、感動しました。

I was moved by being treated kindly.

The grammar 'shite moratte' indicates receiving a kind action.

そのニュースを聞いて、多くの人が感動した。

Hearing that news, many people were moved.

'Kii te' (hearing) leads to the emotion.

彼は人を感動させるのが上手です。

He is good at moving people.

Causative form 'kandō saseru' used as a noun phrase.

あまり感動しなかった映画もありました。

There were also movies that I wasn't very moved by.

Negative past tense 'kandō shinakatta' used to modify 'eiga'.

ボランティアの方々の熱意に深く感動しました。

I was deeply moved by the enthusiasm of the volunteers.

Adverb 'fukaku' (deeply) adds emotional weight.

彼の不屈の精神には、誰もが感動せざるを得ない。

Everyone cannot help but be moved by his indomitable spirit.

Grammar 'zaru o enai' means 'cannot help but...'

そのドラマは、世界中の人々を感動させた。

That drama moved people all over the world.

Causative 'saseru' with the object marker 'o'.

ただの親切心から出た行動に、心から感動した。

I was moved from the bottom of my heart by an action that came from pure kindness.

'Kokoro kara' is a standard phrase for 'sincerely/from the heart'.

感動のあまり、言葉が出てきませんでした。

I was so moved that the words wouldn't come out.

'No amari' indicates an extreme state resulting in an effect.

日本の美しい伝統文化に触れて、深く感動した。

Touching upon Japan's beautiful traditional culture, I was deeply moved.

'Furete' (touching/experiencing) is a common trigger for 'kandō'.

映画のラストシーンは、本当に感動的だった。

The last scene of the movie was truly moving.

Adjective 'kandō-teki' followed by 'datta'.

彼女のバイオリンの演奏は、聴衆を感動の渦に巻き込んだ。

Her violin performance swept the audience into a whirlpool of emotion.

Idiomatic expression 'kandō no uzu' (whirlpool of emotion).

彼のひたむきな努力が実を結んだ瞬間に、強く感動した。

I was strongly moved the moment his single-minded efforts bore fruit.

'Shunkan ni' (at the moment) specifies the timing of the emotion.

このドキュメンタリーは、人間の強さを描いていて感動する。

This documentary describes human strength and is moving.

The verb 'kandō suru' here refers to the speaker's reaction to the content.

単なる技術を超えた、魂のこもった演技に感動した。

I was moved by a performance full of soul that went beyond mere technique.

'Tamashii no komotta' (soul-infused) is a common modifier for things that cause 'kandō'.

震災後の復興に向けた人々の絆に、深く感動を覚えた。

I felt deep emotion at the bonds of people working toward recovery after the earthquake.

'Kandō o oboeru' is a more literary way to say 'to feel moved'.

その小説の繊細な心理描写には、いたく感動させられた。

I was greatly moved by the delicate psychological descriptions in that novel.

Passive causative 'saserareta' implies the work had an irresistible power.

期待以上に素晴らしい出来栄えに、思わず感動してしまった。

I was unintentionally moved by the workmanship, which was even better than expected.

'Shimatta' indicates a spontaneous, perhaps unexpected, emotional response.

多くの困難を乗り越えた彼女の姿は、見る者に感動を与える。

Her figure, having overcome many difficulties, gives inspiration to those who see it.

'Kandō o ataeru' (to give/provide inspiration) is a common collocation.

その詩は、読むたびに新しい感動を呼び起こす。

That poem evokes a new sense of emotion every time I read it.

'Yobiokosu' (to evoke/wake up) describes the recurring nature of the feeling.

その建築物の荘厳な美しさに、言葉を失うほど感動した。

I was so moved by the sublime beauty of that architecture that I was lost for words.

'Kotoba o ushinau hodo' (to the extent of losing words) emphasizes intensity.

無名のアスリートが頂点に立つまでの軌跡には、涙なしには感動できない。

One cannot be moved by the trajectory of an unknown athlete reaching the top without tears.

'Namida nashi ni wa ... dekinai' is a double negative for strong emphasis.

作者の深い慈愛が感じられる作品に、私はいたく感動したのである。

I was greatly moved by the work, in which the author's deep affection could be felt.

The ending 'no de aru' adds an assertive, literary tone.

教育者としての彼の献身的な姿勢には、誰もが深い感銘を受けるだろう。

Everyone will likely be deeply impressed/inspired by his self-sacrificing attitude as an educator.

'Kanmei o ukeru' is a formal substitute for 'kandō suru'.

その映画は、安易な感動を誘うのではなく、観客に深い問いを投げかける。

Rather than inviting easy emotion, that movie poses deep questions to the audience.

'Kandō o sau' (to invite/provoke emotion) often has a slightly critical nuance if preceded by 'anyai' (easy/cheap).

自然の驚異を目の当たりにし、畏敬の念と共に大きな感動を覚えた。

Witnessing the wonders of nature, I felt a great sense of emotion along with a feeling of awe.

'Ikei no nen' (feeling of awe) is often paired with 'kandō' in high-level descriptions.

何十年もの間、一途に芸を磨き続けてきた職人の言葉には、重みと感動がある。

There is weight and inspiration in the words of a craftsman who has single-mindedly honed his craft for decades.

Nouns 'omomi' (weight) and 'kandō' are used as subjects here.

そのオーケストラの演奏は、会場全体を感動の渦に巻き込み、万雷の拍手が送られた。

The orchestra's performance swept the entire venue into a whirlpool of emotion, and thunderous applause was given.

'Banrai no hakushu' (thunderous applause) is a classic accompaniment to 'kandō'.

人智を超えた宇宙の神秘に触れるとき、我々は根源的な感動を禁じ得ない。

When we touch upon the mysteries of the universe that transcend human intellect, we cannot suppress a fundamental sense of wonder.

'...o kinji enai' is a very formal way to say 'cannot suppress/help but feel'.

古典芸能の様式美の中に、現代にも通じる普遍的な感動を見出した。

Within the stylized beauty of classical performing arts, I discovered a universal emotional resonance that still resonates today.

'Fuhen-teki na kandō' (universal emotion) suggests a high-level philosophical observation.

その文学作品は、安直なカタルシスを拒絶し、より深淵な感動へと読者を誘う。

That literary work rejects easy catharsis and invites the reader toward a more profound emotional depth.

'Shin'en na' (profound/abyssal) is used for very deep, serious contexts.

政治的な意図を超えて、人々の善意が連鎖していく様子には、震えるような感動を覚えた。

I felt a trembling sense of emotion at the way people's goodwill chained together, transcending political intent.

'Furueru yō na' (trembling-like) describes an emotion so strong it causes physical shaking.

歴史の荒波に翻弄されながらも、誇り高く生きた人々の記録は、後世に多大な感動を与える。

The records of people who lived with pride despite being tossed about by the rough waves of history provide immense inspiration to future generations.

'Kōsei ni ... ataeru' means to provide something to future generations.

芸術における「感動」とは、単なる情緒的反応ではなく、存在の根源を揺さぶる体験である。

In art, 'kandō' is not merely an emotional reaction, but an experience that shakes the very roots of existence.

A philosophical definition using 'de wa naku ... de aru'.

その社会起業家の理念と実践が、冷笑的な現代社会に一石を投じ、多くの若者を感動させた事実は重い。

The fact that the social entrepreneur's philosophy and practice threw a stone into cynical modern society and moved many young people is significant.

'Isseki o tōji' (to throw a stone/make waves) is a sophisticated idiomatic usage.

至高の美を追求する過程で、彼は自己犠牲をも厭わない崇高な精神を見せ、観る者を深く感動させた。

In the process of pursuing supreme beauty, he showed a sublime spirit that did not mind even self-sacrifice, deeply moving those who watched.

'Sūkō na seishin' (sublime spirit) is a term reserved for the highest level of 'kandō'.

Collocations courantes

深く感動する

映画に感動する

言葉に感動する

涙が出るほど感動する

心から感動する

一途な姿に感動する

思わず感動する

一生忘れない感動

多くの人を感動させる

新しい感動

Phrases Courantes

感動しました！

— I was moved! A standard reaction phrase for something touching.

素晴らしい演奏、感動しました！

感動をありがとう

— Thank you for moving me. Often used to thank athletes or performers.

勇気をもらいました。感動をありがとう。

感動を分かち合う

— To share the emotion/inspiration with others.

仲間と感動を分かち合った。

感動を与える

— To give/provide inspiration or a moving experience.

子供たちに感動を与える仕事がしたい。

感動の嵐

— A storm of emotion. Used when a large group is deeply moved.

会場は感動の嵐に包まれた。

感動を呼ぶ

— To evoke emotion or become a sensation.

その勇気ある行動が感動を呼んだ。

感動の再会

— A moving/emotional reunion.

10年ぶりに感動の再会を果たした。

感動のラスト

— A moving finale/ending.

感動のラストをお見逃しなく！

感動巨編

— A moving masterpiece (usually of a long film or book).

全米が泣いた、感動巨編！

感動を覚える

— To feel/experience emotion. Slightly formal.

自然の雄大さに感動を覚えた。

Souvent confondu avec

感動する vs 感心する (kanshin suru)

Kanshin is for intellectual admiration of skill; Kandō is for emotional resonance.

感動する vs 驚く (odoroku)

Odoroku is surprise; Kandō is being moved. You can be surprised without being moved.

感動する vs 喜ぶ (yorokobu)

Yorokobu is to be glad or joyful; Kandō is a deeper, often more solemn emotional stirring.

Expressions idiomatiques

"琴線に触れる"

— To touch one's heartstrings. Used for something that resonates deeply with one's inner feelings.

その言葉が私の琴線に触れた。

Literary

"胸に迫る"

— To press upon one's chest. Used when an emotion is so strong it feels physically heavy or overwhelming.

彼女の悲しみが胸に迫った。

Literary

"目頭が熱くなる"

— The corners of one's eyes become hot. A way to say you are about to cry from being moved.

手紙を読んで、目頭が熱くなった。

Neutral

"胸がいっぱいになる"

— One's chest becomes full. To be so full of emotion (gratitude, joy, etc.) that you can't say anything.

感謝の気持ちで胸がいっぱいになった。

Neutral

"魂を揺さぶる"

— To shake the soul. Used for incredibly powerful, life-changing emotional experiences.

それは魂を揺さぶるような音楽だった。

Literary

"涙腺が崩壊する"

— One's tear ducts collapse. Slang for crying uncontrollably because something is so moving.

あの映画、ラストで涙腺崩壊したわ。

Slang

"全米が泣いた"

— All of America cried. A cliché movie marketing phrase often mocked, meaning 'it's a massive tear-jerker.'

「全米が泣いた」という宣伝文句に惹かれた。

Media/Ironical

"心を奪われる"

— To have one's heart stolen. To be completely captivated and moved by beauty.

その絵の美しさに心を奪われた。

Neutral

"身震いする"

— To shiver/shudder. Used when an emotion is so strong it causes a physical tremor.

あまりの感動に身震いした。

Neutral

"言葉を失う"

— To lose one's words. To be so moved or shocked that you cannot speak.

その美しさに言葉を失った。

Neutral

Facile à confondre

感動する vs 感激 (kangeki)

Both mean being moved.

Kangeki usually includes a sense of gratitude or personal joy (like getting a prize). Kandō is broader.

合格の知らせに感激した。

感動する vs 感銘 (kanmei)

Both mean being impressed.

Kanmei is formal and implies a lasting impact on your thoughts or character.

偉人の伝記を読んで感銘を受けた。

感動する vs 感謝 (kansha)

You often feel both at once.

Kansha is 'gratitude' toward a person. Kandō is 'emotion' caused by a stimulus.

助けてくれた友人に感謝する。

感動する vs 感触 (kanshoku)

Starts with 'kan'.

Kanshoku is physical touch or the 'feel' of a material.

絹の感触は滑らかだ。

感動する vs 感慨 (kangai)

Both involve deep feeling.

Kangai is deep emotion mixed with memories or reflection on the past.

卒業式で感慨にふける。

Structures de phrases

[Noun] に感動しました。

映画に感動しました。

[Verb-te] 感動しました。

歌を聴いて感動しました。

感動して、[Result]。

感動して泣きました。

[Noun] は感動的です。

この話は感動的です。

[Person] を感動させる。

観客を感動させる。

あまりの [Noun] に感動する。

あまりの美しさに感動する。

感動を禁じ得ない。

その勇気に感動を禁じ得ない。

感動の極みだ。

これこそ感動の極みだ。

Famille de mots

Noms

感動 (kandō) - Emotion/Inspiration

感銘 (kanmei) - Deep impression

感激 (kangeki) - Deep emotion/gratitude

Verbes

感動させる (kandō saseru) - To move someone

感動させられる (kandō saserareru) - To be made to feel moved

Adjectifs

感動的 (kandō-teki) - Moving/Touching

感じやすい (kanji-yasui) - Sensitive/Easily moved

Apparenté

感情 (kanjō) - Emotion

感触 (kanshoku) - Feel/Touch

感性 (kansei) - Sensitivity/Sensibility

共感 (kyōkan) - Empathy

感度 (kando) - Sensitivity/Resolution

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very high in both spoken and written Japanese.

Erreurs courantes

映画を感動した (Eiga o kandō shita) → 映画に感動した (Eiga ni kandō shita)
The particle 'o' indicates a direct object. 'Kandō suru' is an intransitive state, so you use 'ni' for the cause.
この本は感動する (Kono hon wa kandō suru) → この本は感動的だ (Kono hon wa kandō-teki da)
'Kandō suru' means the subject feels moved. A book cannot feel moved. Use the adjective 'kandō-teki' (moving).
私は感動させられた (Watashi wa kandō saserareta) → 私は感動した (Watashi wa kandō shita)
While grammatically possible, the passive causative is rare. Simply saying 'I moved' (kandō shita) is more natural.
テストの結果に感動した (Tesuto no kekka ni kandō shita) → テストの結果に驚いた (Tesuto no kekka ni odoroita)
If you are just surprised by a good score, use 'odoroku'. Use 'kandō' only if the score represents a deeply emotional journey.
感動した！ (to a small joke) → 面白い！ (Omoshiroi!)
Don't over-use 'kandō' for things that are just 'fun' or 'funny'. It's a heavy word for heartfelt moments.

Astuces

Use 'Ni', Not 'O'

This is the #1 rule. The stimulus that moves you is marked by 'ni'. Think of it as 'I was moved BY something'.

Kandō vs. Kanshin

Kandō is for the heart; Kanshin is for the brain. If you're moved by beauty, use Kandō. If you're impressed by a clever trick, use Kanshin.

Show Sincerity

In Japan, being moved by someone's effort is a great compliment. Don't be afraid to use it to show you appreciate their hard work.

Adjective Form

Use 'kandō-teki' when you want to describe a noun (like a movie or story) as being 'moving'.

Intonation Matters

Say it with a slight pause or a breathy voice to convey genuine emotion. A flat 'kandō shimashita' can sound robotic.

Pair with Physicality

When writing a review, combine 'kandō' with physical descriptions like 'namida ga tomatta' (tears stopped) to make it more vivid.

Causative Form

Use 'kandō saseru' when you are the one trying to move others, like a performer or a writer.

Anime Cues

In anime, characters often say 'kandō shita' during friendship speeches. It's a key word for understanding character bonds.

Wedding Speeches

This is a must-know word for Japanese weddings. Guests and family members will use it constantly in their toasts.

Visual Mnemonics

Associate the kanji '動' (move) with the physical movement of your heart to remember the meaning.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'Kan' as 'Can' and 'Do' as the verb. If something is so great it 'Can Do' something to your heart, you are 'Kandō'.

Association visuelle

Imagine a heart inside a chest that is literally being pushed or moved forward by a beautiful melody or a sunset.

Word Web

Movie Music Tears Heart Beautiful Kindness Effort Inspiration

Défi

Try to find one thing every day that makes you 'kandō suru' and write it down in Japanese. Even small things count, like a nice cup of coffee or a kind stranger.

Origine du mot

The word is a Kango (Sino-Japanese word) that appeared in ancient Chinese texts and was adopted into Japanese. The first character 感 (kan) dates back to the Oracle Bone Script, representing a heart (心) and a phonetic component (咸) meaning 'all' or 'together,' signifying a feeling that affects the whole heart.

Sens originel : To be affected or touched by an external force or spirit.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Contexte culturel

Be careful not to use 'kandō suru' in a way that sounds sarcastic, as it is a word deeply associated with sincerity. Using it ironically can be seen as quite rude.

In English, we might say 'That's cool' or 'That's impressive' for things that a Japanese person would call 'kandō.' English speakers often reserve 'I'm moved' for very heavy, serious situations, whereas 'kandō' is used more broadly in Japan.

The movie 'Hachiko' is often cited as the ultimate 'kandō' story in Japan. The phrase 'Kandō o arigatō' was famously used by Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi when addressing sumo wrestler Takanohana in 2001. Anime series like 'Clannad' or 'Your Lie in April' are frequently categorized as 'kandō-kei' (moving-type) anime.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Watching a Movie

ラストシーンに感動した。
俳優の演技に感動した。
ストーリーが感動的だった。
思わず泣いてしまった。

Sports Events

選手の努力に感動した。
逆転勝利に感動した。
最後まで諦めない姿に感動した。
感動をありがとう！

At a Concert

歌声に感動した。
生演奏は迫力があって感動する。
歌詞に深く感動した。
鳥肌が立った。

Receiving Kindness

親切な対応に感動した。
心のこもった手紙に感動した。
助けてもらって感動した。
その優しさに胸が熱くなった。

Seeing Nature

絶景に感動した。
自然の美しさに感動する。
言葉を失うほど感動した。
またここに来たいと思った。

Amorces de conversation

"最近、何か感動した映画はありますか？ (Have you seen any moving movies lately?)"

"スポーツを見て感動して泣いたことはありますか？ (Have you ever cried from being moved by sports?)"

"今までで一番感動した出来事は何ですか？ (What is the most moving thing that has ever happened to you?)"

"どんな音楽を聴くと感動しますか？ (What kind of music moves you?)"

"最近、人の優しさに感動したことはありますか？ (Have you been moved by someone's kindness recently?)"

Sujets d'écriture

今日、心が動かされた（感動した）出来事を一つ書いてください。 (Write about one thing that moved your heart today.)

一番好きな映画の、どのシーンに一番感動したか説明してください。 (Explain which scene in your favorite movie moved you the most.)

自分も人を感動させるようなことができた時、どう感じましたか？ (How did you feel when you were able to do something that moved others?)

「感動」という言葉を、自分なりの言葉で定義してみてください。 (Try to define the word 'kandō' in your own words.)

最近読んだ本の中で、一番感動したセリフは何ですか？ (What was the most moving line in a book you read recently?)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Yes, if the food is so delicious it touches your soul or represents incredible effort, you can say it. However, 'oishii' (delicious) is more common. Using 'kandō' makes you sound like a food critic or very enthusiastic.

Absolutely. While Japanese society sometimes encourages men to be stoic, 'kandō' is a very acceptable way for anyone to express sincere appreciation for sports, art, or hard work.

'Kandō shita' refers to the moment you were moved. 'Kandō shite iru' means you are currently in a state of feeling moved, often by a realization or an ongoing event.

No, 'kandō' is almost exclusively positive. If you are 'moved' to anger or sadness in a negative way, you would use different words like 'ikidōru' (to be indignant) or 'kanashimu' (to grieve).

Always use 'ni' for the thing that caused the emotion. Example: 'Eiga ni kandō shita.' Using 'o' is a common error.

You can say 'Kandō-teki na hanashi deshita' or 'Kandō suru hanashi deshita.'

Yes, it is often translated as inspiration, especially when referring to someone's life story or a powerful speech.

Yes, especially in customer service. Companies strive to provide 'kandō' to their customers, meaning service that goes beyond expectations to touch the heart.

It's a noun used to describe a story, movie, or book that is designed to be moving or a 'tear-jerker.'

Yes, it is very common to be moved by the beauty of nature. It implies the beauty made you feel something deep inside.

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