At the A1 level, you should think of 清潔さ (seiketsusa) as a way to talk about a 'very clean' place. You already know きれい (kirei), which means clean or pretty. 清潔 (seiketsu) is similar but focuses on being healthy and having no germs. Adding -さ (-sa) makes it a noun, like 'cleanliness.' At this level, you can use it in simple sentences like 'The room's cleanliness is good' (heya no seiketsusa wa ii desu). It's a useful word when you go to a hotel or a restaurant in Japan and want to say that the place is very well-kept and sanitary. Remember, Japanese people value cleanliness very much, so using this word shows you understand their culture. You might see it on signs in bathrooms or in simple hospital brochures. Just think of it as 'the level of being clean.'
At the A2 level, you can start using 清潔さ (seiketsusa) to express your opinions more clearly. Instead of just saying a place is clean, you can talk about the degree of cleanliness. For example, you can say 'I like this hotel because of its cleanliness' (kono hoteru no seiketsusa ga suki desu). You should also learn that 清潔 is a 'na-adjective.' When you want to turn a na-adjective into a noun to measure it, you add -sa. This is a common pattern in Japanese (e.g., benri-sa for convenience). At this level, you might encounter this word in travel reviews or basic health advice. It's also good to know that it's slightly more formal than kirei. Use seiketsusa when you want to sound a bit more serious about hygiene, like when talking about food safety or a doctor's office.
At the B1 level, you should understand the nuance between 清潔さ (seiketsusa) and 清潔感 (seiketsukan). While seiketsusa refers to the actual, objective state of being clean (no bacteria, no dirt), seiketsukan refers to the 'impression' or 'sense' of cleanliness, especially in a person's appearance. At B1, you are expected to use seiketsusa in more complex sentences using particles like (o) and (ni). For instance, 'to maintain cleanliness' is 清潔さを保つ (seiketsusa o tamotsu). You should also recognize it in contexts involving public health or social responsibility. This word is key for discussing Japanese cultural values, such as why students clean their own classrooms. It's not just a chore; it's about maintaining the seiketsusa of their environment. You can now use this word to describe abstract concepts too, like a 'clean' political record.
At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 清潔さ (seiketsusa) in professional and formal contexts. You can discuss the 'standards of cleanliness' (清潔さの基準 - seiketsusa no kijun) in industries like hospitality, medicine, or food production. You should understand that seiketsusa is a key component of 'Omotenashi' (Japanese hospitality) and be able to explain its importance in Japanese society. At this level, you can also use the word in more literary or metaphorical ways, such as describing the 'purity' of someone's soul or intentions. You should be able to distinguish seiketsusa from more technical terms like 衛生 (eisei - hygiene) and 清浄 (seijō - purity/purification). For example, you might say that while a room has high seiketsusa, the eisei (hygiene) management system is what ensures it. Your vocabulary should now include collocations like 清潔さを欠く (seiketsusa o kaku - to lack cleanliness) and 清潔さを追求する (seiketsusa o tsuikyū suru - to pursue cleanliness).
At the C1 level, you should have a deep understanding of the sociolinguistic implications of 清潔さ (seiketsusa). You can use it to analyze Japanese culture, perhaps discussing how the concept of kegare (impurity) in Shintoism has evolved into the modern Japanese obsession with seiketsusa. You should be able to use the word in high-level debates about public policy, environmental standards, or corporate ethics. For instance, you could discuss the 清潔さ of a company's financial dealings or the 清潔さ of a legal process. At this level, you should also be sensitive to the register; using seiketsusa in a casual conversation might sound overly clinical unless you are specifically talking about something like a pandemic or a hospital. You should be able to handle complex grammatical structures where seiketsusa is modified by long relative clauses, such as 'The level of cleanliness that is required in a high-tech semiconductor factory' (saishinteki na hamdotai kōjō de motomerareru seiketsusa).
At the C2 level, your mastery of 清潔さ (seiketsusa) should be indistinguishable from that of a native speaker. You can use it with absolute precision in academic writing, legal documents, or poetic literature. You understand the historical development of the word and its components. You can use it to articulate subtle philosophical points about the nature of purity and its role in human aesthetics and ethics. You are also aware of the potential negative connotations, such as 'obsessive cleanliness' (keppekishō), and can discuss the psychological aspects of seiketsusa in modern society. You can effortlessly switch between seiketsusa and its synonyms to achieve the exact tone and nuance required for your audience. Whether you are critiquing a film's 'visual purity' or drafting a public health manifesto, 清潔さ is a tool you use with complete control and sophistication. You can also play with the word in puns or advanced rhetorical devices, showing a complete grasp of its linguistic and cultural weight.

清潔さ 30초 만에

  • A noun meaning 'cleanliness' or 'purity,' derived from the na-adjective 'seiketsu.'
  • Focuses on hygiene and sanitary conditions rather than just visual tidiness.
  • Commonly used in reviews, medical contexts, and discussions of social standards.
  • Can also refer to moral integrity or the 'clean' image of a person.

The Japanese word 清潔さ (せいけつさ - seiketsusa) is a vital noun that transcends simple tidiness to encompass the broader concepts of hygiene, sanitation, and clinical or moral purity. At its linguistic core, it is formed by taking the na-adjective 清潔 (seiketsu), meaning 'clean' or 'sanitary', and appending the suffix -さ (-sa). In Japanese grammar, this suffix is a powerhouse; it transforms adjectives into abstract nouns that represent a measurable degree or state of that quality. Therefore, while 清潔 describes a clean object, 清潔さ describes the quality or 'level' of cleanliness itself. This distinction is crucial for English speakers who might simply use 'cleanliness' in all contexts. In Japanese, using the noun form allows for objective evaluation and discussion of standards.

Etymological Breakdown
The first kanji, 清 (sei), represents 'pure', 'clear', or 'purify', often associated with clear flowing water. The second, 潔 (ketsu), denotes 'unblemished', 'pure', or 'gallant'. Together, they form a word that suggests not just the absence of dirt, but a state of being fundamentally untainted. This is why the word is so common in medical, culinary, and professional environments where 'clean' is a requirement, not just an aesthetic choice.
Cultural Weight
In Japan, cleanliness is often equated with godliness or moral uprightness, a concept rooted in Shinto traditions of harae (purification). When a Japanese person discusses the 清潔さ of a place, they are often making a value judgment on the respect shown to the space and the people within it. It is a key metric in the hospitality industry (Omotenashi), where the 'degree of cleanliness' serves as the foundation of trust between the host and the guest.

日本の公共交通機関の清潔さには、多くの観光客が驚かされます。
(Many tourists are surprised by the cleanliness of Japan's public transportation.)

You will frequently encounter this word in reviews (hotels, restaurants), medical forms, and discussions about public health. It is also used metaphorically to describe a 'clean' image in politics or entertainment—meaning a lack of scandal or corruption. Understanding 清潔さ is a gateway to understanding Japanese social expectations regarding hygiene and public behavior. It is not merely a descriptive term; it is a standard to be maintained, measured, and respected across all facets of life.

手術室では、究極の清潔さが求められる。
(In the operating room, the ultimate level of cleanliness is required.)

Usage Contexts
1. **Public Health**: Discussing the sanitary conditions of water or facilities.
2. **Hospitality**: Guest feedback regarding room maintenance.
3. **Social Grooming**: The concept of seiketsukan (a sense of cleanliness/neatness) in personal appearance.
4. **Abstract Purity**: Discussing the integrity of a person's character or a 'clean' record.

Using 清潔さ correctly requires understanding how it functions as a noun within various grammatical structures. Unlike its adjective counterpart, it cannot directly modify a noun without the particle (no), and it often acts as the subject or object of a sentence. It is most commonly paired with verbs that indicate maintenance, evaluation, or perception. For example, 清潔さを保つ (seiketsusa o tamotsu) means 'to maintain cleanliness,' while 清潔さを欠く (seiketsusa o kaku) means 'to lack cleanliness.'

Common Verb Pairings
  • 保つ (Tamotsu): To maintain. Used for hospitals, kitchens, and public spaces.
  • 評価する (Hyōka suru): To evaluate. Common in business reviews.
  • 求める (Motomeru): To demand/require. Used in job descriptions or standards.
  • 失う (Ushinau): To lose. Used when a place becomes dirty or a person's reputation is tarnished.

このレストランは料理の味だけでなく、店内の清潔さも素晴らしい。
(This restaurant is great not only for the taste of its food but also for the cleanliness of the interior.)

When discussing personal appearance, 清潔さ often shifts slightly to 清潔感 (seiketsukan - a sense of cleanliness). While 清潔さ is an objective measure (e.g., 'Is there dirt on this shirt?'), 清潔感 is a subjective impression (e.g., 'Does this person look well-groomed?'). In professional settings, such as job interviews, having 清潔感 is considered more important than wearing expensive clothes. However, you can still use 清潔さ when referring to the physical state of one's clothing or environment.

都会の喧騒の中でも、その公園は驚くほどの清潔さを維持している。
(Even amidst the bustle of the city, that park maintains a surprising level of cleanliness.)

In formal reports or scientific writing, 清潔さ is used to quantify standards. For instance, in a laboratory setting, one might discuss the 'required cleanliness' (求められる清潔さ) for a specific experiment. It is a versatile word that bridges the gap between everyday chores and high-level professional standards.

心の清潔さを保つことは、外見を整えることと同じくらい大切だ。
(Maintaining purity of heart is as important as grooming one's appearance.)

Particle Usage with 清潔さ
  • 〜の清潔さ: The cleanliness of [something]. (e.g., トイレの清潔さ)
  • 清潔さを〜: [Action] regarding cleanliness. (e.g., 清潔さを競う - to compete for cleanliness)
  • 清潔さに〜: [Reaction] to cleanliness. (e.g., 清潔さにこだわる - to be picky about cleanliness)

The word 清潔さ is ubiquitous in Japanese society, appearing in places ranging from high-end department stores to elementary school classrooms. One of the most common places you will hear it is in the media, particularly during travel programs or news segments discussing public facilities. Japan takes great pride in the high standards of its public toilets, trains, and streets, and the word 清潔さ is frequently used as a metric of national pride and hospitality.

「このホテルの最大の魅力は、その徹底した清潔さにあります。」
("The greatest appeal of this hotel lies in its thorough cleanliness.")

In the workplace, particularly in the manufacturing and service industries, you will hear 清潔さ during safety and quality control briefings. Japan’s famous '5S' methodology (Seiri, Seiton, Seiso, Seiketsu, Shitsuke) emphasizes Seiketsu (standardized cleanup). Managers will often talk about the 清潔さの維持 (maintenance of cleanliness) as a prerequisite for safety and efficiency. If you work in a Japanese kitchen or hospital, this word will be a daily staple of your vocabulary.

Specific Scenarios
  • Real Estate: Agents highlighting the 'cleanliness' of a renovated apartment to potential tenants.
  • Schooling: Teachers instructing students on the importance of 'cleanliness' in shared spaces during o-soji (cleaning time).
  • Politics: Commentators discussing the 'purity' or lack of corruption in a candidate's history.

「政治家には、高い倫理観と清潔さが求められている。」
("Politicians are expected to have high ethics and a sense of purity/integrity.")

Finally, you will find this word in academic or medical research papers concerning hygiene and public health. It serves as the standard term for 'sanitary conditions.' For example, a paper on water quality might refer to the 飲料水の清潔さ (the cleanliness/purity of drinking water). Whether in a casual conversation about a nice cafe or a technical discussion about surgery, 清潔さ is the go-to term for describing the state of being untainted.

The most frequent mistake English speakers make with 清潔さ is confusing it with the word 綺麗さ (kireisa). While both can be translated as 'cleanliness' in certain contexts, their nuances are distinct. 綺麗 (kirei) primarily means 'beautiful' or 'pretty', and when used for cleaning, it implies 'tidy' or 'visually appealing.' 清潔 (seiketsu), on the other hand, implies 'sanitary' or 'hygienic.' You might have a room that is kirei (tidy) but not seiketsu (sanitary) if it hasn't been disinfected. Conversely, a hospital room might be seiketsu but not particularly kirei if the furniture is old and ugly.

Common Errors
  • Using it for people's looks: Saying someone has seiketsusa sounds like they are physically sterile. To say someone looks 'clean-cut' or 'neat,' use 清潔感 (seiketsukan) instead.
  • Confusing with 'Clean-up': 清潔さ is a state, not an action. To say 'The cleaning was good,' use 掃除 (sōji) or 清掃 (seisō).
  • Overuse in casual speech: In very casual settings, 清潔さ can sound a bit formal or clinical. Using the adjective 清潔 (seiketsu) or just 綺麗 (kirei) is often more natural for daily life.

彼は清潔さがある。
彼は清潔感がある。
(He has a sense of cleanliness/is well-groomed.)

Another error is regarding the particle usage. Because it is a noun, learners often forget the (no) when connecting it to other nouns. For example, 'Room cleanliness' must be 部屋の清潔さ, not 部屋清潔さ. Additionally, learners sometimes confuse 清潔 (seiketsu) with 清楚 (seiso), which refers specifically to a 'neat and clean' appearance in a modest or elegant way, usually describing women's fashion or demeanor.

この水の綺麗さは大切だ。
この水の清潔さは大切だ。
(The cleanliness/purity of this water is important.)

To truly master 清潔さ, you must understand its relationship with other words in the 'cleanliness' family. Japanese has a rich vocabulary for describing various states of order and purity, and choosing the right one depends on the context—whether it's hygiene, visual tidiness, or moral integrity.

Comparison Table
WordNuanceBest For...
清潔さ (Seiketsusa)Hygienic, sanitary, germ-free.Hospitals, food, water, morals.
綺麗さ (Kireisa)Visual beauty, tidiness, organized.Rooms, scenery, handwriting.
衛生 (Eisei)Hygiene/Sanitation (Scientific).Public health, regulations.
清楚 (Seiso)Neat, modest, elegant.Fashion, personality, style.
純粋さ (Junsuisa)Pure, innocent, unmixed.Chemicals, gold, a child's heart.

While 清潔さ is the noun form, in daily conversation, you will often use the adjective 清潔な (seiketsu-na). For example, 清潔なタオル (a clean towel). If you want to emphasize that something is 'spotless' or 'squeaky clean,' you might use the onomatopoeic word ぴかぴか (pikapika) or すっきり (sukkiri) for a clean, refreshed feeling. However, 清潔さ remains the formal and objective standard.

「公衆衛生の向上には、環境の清潔さが不可欠です。」
("To improve public health, environmental cleanliness is essential.")

Another interesting alternative is 清浄 (seijō), which specifically refers to 'purification' or 'purity' in a more technical or religious sense, such as 空気清浄機 (kūki seijōki - air purifier). While 清潔さ focuses on the state of being clean, 清浄 focuses on the process or result of removing impurities. Understanding these subtle shifts will make your Japanese sound much more natural and precise.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The kanji 清 (sei) contains the water radical (氵), reflecting the ancient idea that purity is found in clear water. The suffix '-sa' is a native Japanese (Wago) grammatical tool.

발음 가이드

UK /seɪ.ke.tsu.sa/
US /seɪ.ke.tsu.sa/
Japanese has pitch accent rather than stress. 'Seiketsusa' typically has a Low-High-High-High-High pattern in standard Tokyo dialect (Heiban style).
라임이 맞는 단어
大切さ (Taisetsusa) 適切さ (Tekisetsusa) 正確さ (Seikakusa) 丁寧さ (Teineisa) 便利さ (Benrisa) 静かさ (Shizukasa) 賑やかさ (Nigiyakasa) 鮮やかさ (Azayakasa)
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing 'tsu' as 'su' or 'tu'.
  • Elongating the 'ei' sound too much.
  • Putting heavy stress on one syllable.
  • Mumbling the final 'sa'.
  • Confusing the pitch accent with Chinese tones.

난이도

독해 3/5

The kanji are common but require some study. The suffix -sa is a basic B1 grammar point.

쓰기 4/5

Writing the kanji '潔' can be tricky for beginners due to the stroke count.

말하기 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but using it instead of 'kirei' requires nuance.

듣기 2/5

Clearly articulated in formal settings, making it easy to catch.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

清潔 綺麗 掃除 汚い 健康

다음에 배울 것

衛生 消毒 潔癖 清浄 清楚

고급

公衆衛生 殺菌 滅菌 無菌室 清廉

알아야 할 문법

Suffix -sa to Noun

清潔 (clean) -> 清潔さ (cleanliness)

Particle 'no' for possession

部屋の清潔さ (Room's cleanliness)

Particle 'o' for object

清潔さを保つ (Maintain cleanliness)

Passive voice 'motomerareru'

清潔さが求められる (Cleanliness is required)

Potential form 'tamoteru'

清潔さを保てる (Can maintain cleanliness)

수준별 예문

1

この部屋は清潔さがあります。

This room has cleanliness.

Noun + ga arimasu (there is/has).

2

清潔さは大切です。

Cleanliness is important.

Topic marker 'wa' + adjective 'taisetsu'.

3

トイレの清潔さがいいです。

The toilet's cleanliness is good.

Possessive 'no' connecting two nouns.

4

清潔さをチェックします。

I will check the cleanliness.

Object marker 'o' + verb 'chekku shimasu'.

5

日本の清潔さに驚きました。

I was surprised by Japan's cleanliness.

Particle 'ni' indicating the cause of surprise.

6

清潔さが一番です。

Cleanliness is number one/the most important.

Ichiban used as 'the best/most'.

7

公園の清潔さを守りましょう。

Let's protect the park's cleanliness.

Volitional form 'mamorimashō' (let's protect).

8

清潔さは好きですか?

Do you like cleanliness?

Question form with 'suki desu ka'.

1

レストランの清潔さを評価してください。

Please evaluate the restaurant's cleanliness.

Te-form + kudasai (request).

2

清潔さを保つために掃除します。

I clean to maintain cleanliness.

Tame ni (in order to).

3

このタオルの清潔さは素晴らしいです。

The cleanliness of this towel is wonderful.

Adjective 'subarashii' modifying the noun.

4

清潔さが足りないと思います。

I think it lacks cleanliness.

To omoimasu (I think).

5

街の清潔さが自慢です。

I am proud of the city's cleanliness.

Jiman (pride/boast).

6

清潔さを第一に考えています。

We consider cleanliness first and foremost.

Dai-ichi ni (as the first priority).

7

もっと清潔さが必要です。

More cleanliness is necessary.

Motto (more) + hitsuyō (necessary).

8

清潔さを比べるのは難しいです。

It is difficult to compare cleanliness.

No wa (nominalizing the verb phrase).

1

日本人の清潔さへの意識は高いです。

Japanese people's awareness of cleanliness is high.

Particle 'e no' (towards/regarding).

2

清潔さを欠いた店には行きたくない。

I don't want to go to a shop that lacks cleanliness.

Relative clause modifying 'mise'.

3

手術室には高い清潔さが求められる。

A high level of cleanliness is required in operating rooms.

Passive voice 'motomerareru'.

4

清潔さを維持するのは大変な努力が必要だ。

Maintaining cleanliness requires great effort.

Ushinau (to lose) vs Iji suru (to maintain).

5

その政治家は清潔さをアピールしている。

That politician is appealing to their purity/integrity.

Metaphorical use for integrity.

6

清潔さが健康を守る鍵となります。

Cleanliness becomes the key to protecting health.

Kagi (key) used metaphorically.

7

見た目の清潔さだけでなく、中身も大切だ。

Not just the appearance of cleanliness, the inside is also important.

Dakedenaku (not only... but also).

8

清潔さを損なう行為はやめましょう。

Let's stop actions that damage cleanliness.

Sokonau (to damage/harm).

1

ホテルの格付けには清潔さが大きく影響する。

Cleanliness greatly influences hotel ratings.

Eikyō suru (to influence).

2

清潔さを徹底することで、信頼を得る。

By being thorough with cleanliness, we gain trust.

De (by means of) + koto (nominalizer).

3

この製品は、清潔さを追求して作られました。

This product was made in pursuit of cleanliness.

Tsuikyū shite (pursuing).

4

都会の清潔さを保つのは自治体の責務だ。

It is the responsibility of the local government to maintain the city's cleanliness.

Sekimu (duty/obligation).

5

清潔さが欠如していると、客足が遠のく。

If cleanliness is lacking, customers will stay away.

Kejyoryu (lack/deficiency).

6

清潔さを数値化するのは容易ではない。

It is not easy to quantify cleanliness.

Sūchika (quantification).

7

彼は潔癖症で、過剰に清潔さを気にする。

He has OCD/germaphobia and cares excessively about cleanliness.

Kajō ni (excessively).

8

清潔さを重んじる文化が日本には根付いている。

A culture that values cleanliness is deeply rooted in Japan.

Omonjiru (to value/honor).

1

伝統的な美意識において、清潔さは欠かせない要素だ。

In traditional aesthetics, cleanliness is an indispensable element.

Kakasenai (indispensable).

2

清潔さをめぐる議論が、新しい条例の制定につながった。

Discussions surrounding cleanliness led to the enactment of a new ordinance.

Meguru (surrounding/concerning).

3

心の清潔さが、その人の言葉に重みを与える。

The purity of one's heart gives weight to their words.

Omomi (weight/significance).

4

清潔さを標榜しながら、裏では不正を行っていた。

While advocating for purity/integrity, they were committing fraud behind the scenes.

Hyōbō suru (to advocate/claim).

5

科学的な清潔さと、感覚的な心地よさは必ずしも一致しない。

Scientific cleanliness and sensory comfort do not always coincide.

Kanarazushimo... nai (not necessarily).

6

清潔さを極めることは、ある種のアートと言える。

Perfecting cleanliness can be called a kind of art.

Kiwameru (to master/perfect).

7

その建築家は、空間の清潔さを最大限に引き出した。

That architect brought out the cleanliness of the space to the maximum.

Hikidasu (to draw out).

8

清潔さを維持するためのコストは、無視できないほど大きい。

The cost of maintaining cleanliness is so large it cannot be ignored.

Mushi dekinai (cannot ignore).

1

神道における「清浄」の概念は、現代の清潔さへの執着の源流と言える。

The Shinto concept of 'Seijō' (purity) can be said to be the origin of the modern obsession with cleanliness.

Genryū (source/origin).

2

清潔さが過度になると、社会の多様性を損なう恐れがある。

When cleanliness becomes excessive, there is a risk it may damage social diversity.

Osore ga aru (there is a fear/risk).

3

言葉の清潔さを磨くことで、思考はより明晰になる。

By refining the purity of one's language, thoughts become clearer.

Meiseki (clear/lucid).

4

清潔さを至高の価値とする社会では、わずかな汚れも許容されない。

In a society where cleanliness is the supreme value, even a slight stain is not tolerated.

Shikō no kachi (supreme value).

5

清潔さと不潔さの境界線は、文化や時代によって絶えず変化する。

The boundary between cleanliness and filth constantly changes depending on culture and era.

Taezu (constantly).

6

清潔さを追求するあまり、人間本来の野性味を失ってはならない。

One must not lose their inherent human wildness by pursuing cleanliness too much.

Amari (too much... that).

7

その小説は、人間の醜さと精神の清潔さを対比させて描いている。

That novel depicts the contrast between human ugliness and spiritual purity.

Taihi sasete (contrasting).

8

真の清潔さとは、表面的な美しさではなく、本質的な純粋さを指す。

True cleanliness refers not to superficial beauty, but to essential purity.

Sasu (to point to/refer to).

자주 쓰는 조합

清潔さを保つ
清潔さを求める
清潔さに欠ける
清潔さを評価する
清潔さを維持する
清潔さを損なう
徹底した清潔さ
清潔さを競う
清潔さを誇る
清潔さを意識する

자주 쓰는 구문

清潔さの基準

— Standards of cleanliness. Used in industry regulations.

この工場の清潔さの基準は非常に厳しい。

清潔さへのこだわり

— Obsession or particularity about cleanliness.

彼女の清潔さへのこだわりは異常だ。

清潔さを第一に

— Cleanliness first. A common motto in kitchens.

清潔さを第一に考えて調理してください。

清潔さが売り

— Cleanliness is the selling point.

この銭湯は清潔さが売りです。

清潔さが命

— Cleanliness is life (essential). Used for surgeons.

外科医にとって清潔さは命だ。

清潔さを保てない

— Cannot maintain cleanliness.

忙しすぎて清潔さを保てない。

清潔さを取り戻す

— To regain cleanliness.

大掃除で部屋の清潔さを取り戻した。

清潔さを裏付ける

— To support/prove cleanliness.

データがその水の清潔さを裏付けている。

清潔さを疑う

— To doubt the cleanliness.

このレストランの清潔さを疑わざるを得ない。

清潔さを象徴する

— To symbolize cleanliness.

白は清潔さを象徴する色だ。

자주 혼동되는 단어

清潔さ vs 綺麗さ (Kireisa)

Kireisa is visual beauty/tidiness; Seiketsusa is hygiene/purity.

清潔さ vs 清潔感 (Seiketsukan)

Seiketsukan is the 'impression' of being clean, usually used for people's looks.

清潔さ vs 清掃 (Seisō)

Seisō is the 'act' of cleaning; Seiketsusa is the 'state' of being clean.

관용어 및 표현

"身の潔白"

— One's innocence/purity. Used when someone is accused of a crime.

彼は裁判で身の潔白を証明した。

Formal
"清廉潔白"

— Having a clean heart and being upright/honest.

彼は清廉潔白な政治家として知られている。

Formal/Idiomatic
"水清ければ魚棲まず"

— If the water is too clean, fish cannot live. (If someone is too strict or pure, people won't stay around them).

清潔さも大切だが、水清ければ魚棲まずとも言うよ。

Literary
"汚れを知らない"

— Knowing no filth; innocent/pure.

汚れを知らない子供のような心。

Poetic
"垢抜ける"

— To become refined or sophisticated (literally 'to have the dirt removed').

彼女は都会に出て、すっかり垢抜けた。

Informal
"身を清める"

— To purify one's body (often before a ritual).

神社に入る前に、手水舎で身を清める。

Formal/Religious
"心を洗う"

— To wash one's heart (to be moved by something pure).

美しい景色を見て、心が洗われるようだ。

Neutral
"清濁併せ呑む"

— To swallow both the pure and the muddy (to be big-hearted enough to accept both good and bad).

リーダーには清濁併せ呑む度量が必要だ。

Formal
"清潔感のある"

— Having a sense of cleanliness (neat/well-groomed).

彼は清潔感のある服装をしている。

Neutral
"白紙に戻す"

— To return to a blank sheet (to start over from a pure state).

その計画はいったん白紙に戻そう。

Neutral

혼동하기 쉬운

清潔さ vs 衛生 (Eisei)

Both relate to health.

Eisei is the technical/scientific field of hygiene; Seiketsusa is the quality of being clean.

公衆衛生 (Public health) vs トイレの清潔さ (Toilet cleanliness).

清潔さ vs 清楚 (Seiso)

Sounds similar.

Seiso describes a person's modest and neat style; Seiketsu is physical cleanliness.

清楚な女性 (A modest/neat woman).

清潔さ vs 純粋 (Junsui)

Both mean 'pure'.

Junsui is about being unmixed or innocent; Seiketsu is about being sanitary.

純粋な水 (Pure water/distilled) vs 清潔な水 (Clean/safe water).

清潔さ vs 清浄 (Seijō)

Both mean 'clean/pure'.

Seijō is often used for the process of purification (e.g., air purifiers).

空気を清浄にする。

清潔さ vs 潔白 (Keppaku)

Contains the kanji '洁'.

Keppaku refers specifically to legal or moral innocence.

身の潔白。

문장 패턴

A1

Noun + no + 清潔さ + wa + Adj + desu

この店の清潔さはいいです。

A2

Noun + no + 清潔さ + ga + suki desu

日本の清潔さが好きです。

B1

清潔さ + o + tamotsu + tame ni + Verb

清潔さを保つために毎日掃除します。

B1

清潔さ + ni + kakeru + Noun

清潔さに欠けるレストラン。

B2

清潔さ + ga + motomerareru

病院では高い清潔さが求められる。

B2

清潔さ + o + iji suru

環境の清潔さを維持する。

C1

清潔さ + e no + ishiki

清潔さへの意識を高める。

C2

清潔さ + o + shikō no kachi + to suru

清潔さを至高の価値とする。

어휘 가족

명사

清潔 (Seiketsu)
不潔 (Fuketsu)
清潔感 (Seiketsukan)
清掃 (Seisō)
衛生 (Eisei)

동사

清潔にする (Seiketsu ni suru)
清める (Kiyomeru)
掃除する (Sōji suru)
消毒する (Shōdoku suru)

형용사

清潔な (Seiketsu-na)
不潔な (Fuketsu-na)
清らかな (Kiyoraka-na)
清い (Kiyoi)

관련

掃除
石鹸
消毒
洗濯
風呂

사용법

frequency

High, especially in service industries and healthcare.

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'seiketsusa' for 'pretty'. Kireisa

    Seiketsusa is about hygiene; Kireisa is about beauty.

  • Saying 'He has seiketsusa' for a neat person. Seiketsukan ga aru

    Seiketsukan is the 'impression' of cleanliness for people.

  • Forgetting the 'no' particle in 'Heya seiketsusa'. Heya no seiketsusa

    Nouns must be connected with 'no'.

  • Using 'seiketsusa' as a verb. Seiketsu ni suru / Seisō suru

    Seiketsusa is a noun. You cannot 'seiketsusa' something.

  • Confusing 'seiketsu' with 'seiso' (modest). Seiketsu

    Seiso is a personality/fashion style; Seiketsu is hygiene.

The School Cleaning Ritual

Japanese students clean their own schools. This isn't just to save money; it's to instill a lifelong respect for 'seiketsusa' and shared responsibility.

Suffix Power

Learn the '-sa' suffix! It works for many adjectives (e.g., takasa - height, omosa - weight) and is essential for B1 level Japanese.

Review Writing

When writing a review for a Japanese hotel, always mention the 'seiketsusa'. It is the highest compliment you can give.

Professionalism

In a Japanese office, 'seiketsusa' includes keeping your desk tidy. A 'fuketsu' desk is seen as a sign of a 'fuketsu' mind.

Medical Standards

In hospitals, you will see '清潔' and '不潔' used to mark sterile and non-sterile areas/tools. It's literally a matter of life and death.

Grooming

If you are told you lack 'seiketsukan', it might mean your hair is messy or your clothes are wrinkled. It's a polite way to say 'groom yourself better'.

Public Manners

Avoid eating while walking in Japan. Part of maintaining 'seiketsusa' in public is not creating potential messes on the street.

Particle Precision

Use 'ni' with 'kodawaru' (to be picky about) -> 清潔さにこだわる. This is a common phrase for neat freaks.

The Meiji Shift

The modern emphasis on 'seiketsu' as 'germ-free' began in the Meiji era as Japan adopted Western medical science to fight cholera.

Moral Purity

In politics, a 'clean' candidate is 'seiketsu'. This means they are free from the 'dirt' of corruption and bribery.

암기하기

기억법

Imagine a **SAY**lor (Sei) who is **KE**pt (Ke) in a **TSU**nami (Tsu) of **SA**nitizer (Sa). He is the king of cleanliness!

시각적 연상

Visualize a sparkling white hospital room where every surface reflects light. This 'level' of sparkle is 'Seiketsusa'.

Word Web

Hygiene Sanitary Hospital Hotel Reviews Purity Germ-free Grooming Standard

챌린지

Try to find 3 things in your room today and describe their 'Seiketsusa' level using 'ga takai' (is high) or 'ga hikui' (is low).

어원

Derived from Middle Chinese compounds. 'Sei' (清) and 'Ketsu' (潔) both mean pure or clean.

원래 의미: A state of being unblemished and free from contaminants, often associated with water.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

문화적 맥락

Be careful when using 'fuketsu' (the opposite) to describe people, as it is a very strong insult implying they are disgusting or diseased.

In English, 'cleanliness' is often just about being tidy. In Japan, it's more about being 'sanitary' and 'morally upright'.

The '7-Minute Miracle' (Shinkansen cleaning crews). Marie Kondo's philosophy (though she focuses more on tidiness). Japanese fans cleaning stadiums after World Cup matches.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Hotel Reviews

  • 清潔さが際立っている
  • 清潔さに満足
  • 清潔さが不十分
  • 清潔な部屋

Medical/Healthcare

  • 清潔さを保つ
  • 高い清潔さ
  • 清潔な器具
  • 清潔区域

Personal Grooming

  • 清潔感がある
  • 清潔さを心がける
  • 清潔な服装
  • 清潔さを失う

Public Facilities

  • 街の清潔さ
  • トイレの清潔さ
  • 清潔な公園
  • 清潔さを守る

Politics/Ethics

  • 政治の清潔さ
  • 心の清潔さ
  • 潔白を証明する
  • 清廉な人

대화 시작하기

"日本の街の清潔さについてどう思いますか?"

"ホテルの予約をするとき、清潔さを一番重視しますか?"

"清潔さを保つために、毎日どんなことをしていますか?"

"あなたは清潔さに厳しいほうですか?"

"最近行った場所で、清潔さに感動したところはありますか?"

일기 주제

あなたが考える「理想的な清潔さ」とはどのようなものですか?

日本の清潔さと、あなたの国の清潔さを比べてみてください。

清潔さを維持することの大切さについて、自分の考えを書きなさい。

もし清潔さが全くない世界になったら、どうなると思いますか?

自分自身の清潔感(身だしなみ)について、気をつけていることを書きなさい。

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

You can, but it sounds like you are talking about their physical hygiene or moral purity. If you mean they look 'neat' or 'well-groomed,' use 清潔感 (seiketsukan) instead.

清潔 is the adjective (clean). 清潔さ is the noun (cleanliness). Use the noun when you want to measure or evaluate the state, like 'The cleanliness of the room.'

If the room is messy but technically germ-free, you might use 'kirei ja nai' (not tidy). If it's unsanitary, use '清潔さがない' (has no cleanliness).

You can use 'pikapika' (sparkling) or 'chiri hitotsu nai' (not a single speck of dust).

The concept is related, but the religious term is usually '清浄' (seijō) or '清らか' (kiyoraka).

Yes, it is very common to describe the purity or sanitary quality of drinking water.

It is the opposite of 'seiketsusa,' meaning filthiness or lack of hygiene.

It's a combination of Shinto beliefs about purity, historical public health education, and the social value of not bothering others.

Yes, it is the 4th S in the 5S methodology used in Japanese management.

Usually, 'kurīn' (clean) or 'saisei kanō' (renewable) is used for energy, but 'seiketsu' could be used metaphorically for its lack of pollutants.

셀프 테스트 200 질문

writing

Translate: The cleanliness of this room is perfect.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: Please maintain cleanliness in the kitchen.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: I was surprised by the cleanliness of the Japanese trains.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: Cleanliness is the most important thing for a restaurant.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: He has a sense of cleanliness (neat appearance).

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: This hospital requires a high level of cleanliness.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: Don't lack cleanliness.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: We evaluate hotels based on their cleanliness.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: Maintaining cleanliness is everyone's duty.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: The politician emphasized his purity/integrity.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using '清潔さ' and '保つ'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using '清潔さ' and '驚く'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using '清潔さ' and '評価'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using '清潔さ' and '求める'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using '清潔さ' and '欠ける'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using '清潔さ' and '意識'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using '清潔さ' and '損なう'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using '清潔さ' and '第一'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using '清潔さ' and '基準'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using '清潔さ' and '心の'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pronounce: 清潔さ (せいけつさ)

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Cleanliness is important.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'The room's cleanliness is good.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I maintain cleanliness.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I like Japan's cleanliness.' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explain the difference between 'kirei' and 'seiketsu' in simple Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Please check the cleanliness of the kitchen.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'He has a sense of cleanliness.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Talk about why cleanliness is important for 30 seconds.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'This restaurant lacks cleanliness.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'High cleanliness is required here.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I am proud of the city's cleanliness.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Cleanliness is the key to health.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Let's protect our environmental cleanliness.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'The hotel's rating depends on cleanliness.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Purity of heart is also important.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I am sensitive to cleanliness.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Maintaining cleanliness is hard work.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'I was moved by the cleanliness of the airport.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say: 'Cleanliness is first priority.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the word: せいけつさ

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 部屋の清潔さを保ちましょう。 What should we maintain?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 日本の清潔さには驚きました。 What was the speaker surprised by?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 清潔感のある人が好きです。 What kind of person does the speaker like?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 清潔さが足りないと思います。 Does the speaker think it's clean enough?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 病院では高い清潔さが求められます。 Where is high cleanliness required?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 清潔さを第一に考えています。 What is the first priority?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 街の清潔さを守るためにゴミを拾います。 Why pick up trash?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 彼は清潔さに欠けている。 Does he have cleanliness?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 清潔さを評価してこのホテルを選びました。 Why did they choose the hotel?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 徹底した清潔さが自慢です。 What is the boast?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 清潔さを損なう落書き。 What does the graffiti do?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 手の清潔さを保つことが予防になります。 What is the prevention method?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 心の清潔さを磨きましょう。 What should we polish?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 清潔さの基準を上げます。 What will they raise?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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