At the A1 level, '洞察' (dousatsu) is a very difficult word that you probably won't use. However, you can think of it as having 'good eyes' for the mind. It means seeing something that is hidden. Imagine you look at a box. Most people just see a box. But a person with 'insight' sees that the box is actually a secret door. In A1, we usually use simple words like 'わかる' (to understand) or '見る' (to see). But '洞察' is like 'super understanding.' You don't just see the face; you see the heart. It is a word for smart people in books and movies. If you want to say something similar in A1 Japanese, you might say 'よくわかります' (I understand well) or '頭がいいです' (He is smart). This word is made of two parts: 'Dou' (like a deep cave) and 'Satsu' (to look carefully). So it means looking deep into a cave to find the truth. Even if you don't use it now, remembering that it means 'deep seeing' will help you later.
At the A2 level, you are starting to learn more specific nouns. '洞察' (dousatsu) means 'insight.' You might hear this word when people talk about 'insight' in a business or a story. It is more than just 'seeing' (見る). It is 'seeing into.' For example, if a friend is sad but smiling, and you know they are sad, that is a kind of insight. In Japanese, we call this ability '洞察力' (dousatsuryoku). At this level, you can try to remember it as a formal version of 'understanding the truth.' You will see it in news or read it in slightly harder books. A good way to remember it is that '洞' is the kanji for 'cave.' When you go into a cave, you need to look carefully to see what is inside. That is what '洞察' is—looking into the 'cave' of a problem to see the answer. You can use it like this: '彼は洞察力がある' (He has insight). It is a very positive thing to say about someone's intelligence.
At the B1 level, you should begin to distinguish between different types of 'understanding.' '洞察' (dousatsu) is specifically 'insight' or 'discernment.' While you might use '理解' (rikai) for general understanding of a language or a math problem, '洞察' is used when you perceive the 'essence' (本質 - honshitsu) of something. It is a very useful word for writing essays or participating in more formal discussions. For example, if you are discussing a character in a novel, you might say, '作者は人間の心理を鋭く洞察している' (The author insightfully perceives human psychology). Notice the word '鋭く' (surudoku - sharply); it is a very common partner for '洞察.' At this level, you should also learn '洞察力' (the power of insight). It is a common 'business skill' in Japan. If you can say '洞察を得る' (to gain insight) in a presentation, you will sound much more professional and advanced. It shows that you aren't just looking at the surface, but you are thinking deeply.
At the B2 level, '洞察' (dousatsu) is an essential vocabulary item for academic and professional Japanese. It refers to the cognitive ability to penetrate the surface of complex phenomena to reach the underlying truth. You should be comfortable using it in various contexts, such as '社会への洞察' (insight into society) or 'マーケットの洞察' (market insight). At this level, you need to understand the subtle difference between '洞察' and '観察' (observation). Observation is the data collection phase, while insight is the synthesis and deep understanding that follows. You will often see this word in phrases like '洞察を加える' (to provide insight) or '洞察に富む' (rich in insight). When writing, using '洞察' instead of '深い理解' (deep understanding) can add a layer of sophistication and precision to your work. It suggests an analytical depth that is characteristic of upper-intermediate and advanced Japanese usage. You should also be aware of its usage in psychological contexts, where it refers to a patient's self-awareness of their own mental state.
At the C1 level, you should master the nuances of '洞察' (dousatsu) and its related expressions in high-level discourse. '洞察' is not merely 'insight' but a 'penetrative discernment' that often implies a near-prophetic or expert ability to see what others cannot. In philosophical or literary critiques, '洞察' is used to describe an author's or thinker's ability to lay bare the fundamental contradictions of existence. You should be able to use it fluently in sentences like '彼の言説は、権力構造の深層に対する透徹した洞察に基づいている' (His discourse is based on a transparent insight into the deep layers of power structures). At this level, you should also explore synonyms like '慧眼' (keigan - a discerning eye) or '眼光紙背に徹す' (gankou shihai ni tessu - reading between the lines with extreme penetration). '洞察' can also be used in scientific contexts to describe the leap of logic that leads to a paradigm shift. Understanding the historical and kanji-based roots—the 'cave' (洞) and 'examination' (察)—helps in grasping its metaphorical weight in Japanese intellectual history.
At the C2 level, '洞察' (dousatsu) is a tool for precise and nuanced expression in the highest echelons of Japanese society, academia, and literature. You should be able to distinguish its application from related terms like '看破' (kanpa - seeing through a deception) or '透視' (toushi - seeing through/clairvoyance). In C2 level discourse, '洞察' often refers to the holistic and transcendental grasp of 'truth' (真理) or 'essence' (本質). It is the hallmark of a 'sage' or a 'master.' You will encounter it in complex texts where it might be used to describe the 'historical insight' (歴史的洞察) required to navigate modern crises. The word functions as a bridge between empirical observation and metaphysical understanding. Mastery at this level involves not just knowing the word, but being able to deploy it with the correct collocations and registers to convey a profound level of intellectual authority. Whether you are analyzing a Haiku's 'insight' into the transience of life or a CEO's 'insight' into disruptive technology, the word '洞察' carries a weight of seasoned wisdom and analytical rigor that is central to advanced Japanese communication.

洞察 30초 만에

  • 洞察 (dousatsu) means 'insight' and refers to seeing the hidden truth of things.
  • It is a formal word used in business, science, and academic contexts.
  • It is often paired with adjectives like 'sharp' (鋭い) or 'deep' (深い).
  • It differs from 'observation' (観察) because it focuses on the internal essence.
The word 洞察 (dousatsu) is a sophisticated Japanese noun that translates most accurately to 'insight' or 'discernment.' It is composed of two kanji: 洞 (dou), which means 'cave,' 'hollow,' or 'to see through,' and 察 (satsu), which means 'to guess,' 'to observe,' or 'to judge.' Together, they describe the mental act of looking deep into a situation, much like peering into a dark cave to see what lies at the very back, and understanding the hidden truths or underlying principles that are not immediately apparent to the casual observer. In Japanese culture, having 洞察力 (dousatsuryoku - the power of insight) is considered a highly desirable trait, especially for leaders, strategists, and artists. It implies a level of wisdom that goes beyond mere observation. While 観察 (kansatsu) refers to the act of looking at the surface or the behavior of something, 洞察 refers to the intellectual and intuitive leap that allows one to understand *why* something is happening.
Nuance
Unlike 'intuition' (直感 - chokkan), which is often a sudden feeling without a clear logical path, 洞察 suggests a deep, analytical penetration into the essence of a matter.
Formality
This is a formal and academic word. You will encounter it in business strategies, psychological analyses, and literary critiques rather than casual daily conversation about what to eat for lunch.

彼は市場の動向に対して鋭い洞察を持っている。(He has sharp insight into market trends.)

In a professional setting, being praised for your 洞察 means you have seen a risk or an opportunity that others missed. It is the 'Aha!' moment backed by experience and intelligence.

この本は人間性の深淵に対する深い洞察に満ちている。(This book is full of deep insights into the depths of human nature.)

The word is often paired with adjectives like 鋭い (surudoi - sharp) or 深い (fukai - deep). It is used when discussing complex systems, human psychology, or future predictions based on current data.
Usage Context
Commonly used in the phrase '洞察を加える' (to add/provide insight) or '洞察を得る' (to gain insight).

データ分析を通じて、顧客の行動に関する貴重な洞察を得た。(Through data analysis, we gained valuable insights into customer behavior.)

探偵の洞察が事件の真相を暴いた。(The detective's insight revealed the truth of the case.)

Kanji Breakdown
洞 (DOU): Penetrate, see through. 察 (SATSU): Guess, examine. Combined: To examine by penetrating the surface.

彼の洞察は常に的を射ている。(His insights are always spot on.)

Using 洞察 (dousatsu) correctly requires understanding that it is primarily a noun, but it can function as a verb when combined with する (suru), although '洞察する' is less common than '洞察力を発揮する' (demonstrate insight) or '洞察を得る' (gain insight). In most academic or professional writing, 洞察 is used to describe the result of a deep analysis. For example, when writing a report, you might say '今後の展望についての洞察を述べる' (State insights regarding future prospects).
Grammar Tip
洞察 is often followed by the particle 'を' (object marker) or 'に' (target marker), such as '~を洞察する' (to insightfully perceive something) or '~に対する洞察' (insight into something).

歴史家は過去の出来事から現代への洞察を引き出した。(The historian drew insights for the present from past events.)

Another common structure is '洞察に富む' (dousatsu ni tomu), meaning 'rich in insight.' This is a high praise for a speech, a book, or a person's opinion.

その教授の講義は、社会問題に対する洞察に富んでいた。(That professor's lecture was rich in insight into social issues.)

In more poetic or literary contexts, 洞察 can be used to describe seeing into the human heart or the mysteries of the universe. It suggests a spiritual or psychological depth.
Collocation
鋭い洞察 (sharp insight), 深い洞察 (deep insight), 的確な洞察 (accurate insight).

心理学者は患者の言葉の裏にある感情を洞察した。(The psychologist gained insight into the emotions behind the patient's words.)

科学的な洞察が新しい発見の鍵となった。(Scientific insight became the key to the new discovery.)

Verb Usage
While '洞察する' is possible, '洞察を得る' (gain insight) or '洞察を与える' (give insight) are much more common in natural Japanese.

彼は物事の本質を洞察する力に長けている。(He excels in the power to perceive the essence of things.)

You will hear 洞察 (dousatsu) in environments where critical thinking and deep analysis are valued. It is a staple of NHK news broadcasts, especially during segments that analyze political shifts or economic trends. For instance, a news anchor might say, '専門家による鋭い洞察をお聞きします' (We will hear sharp insights from the expert). In the corporate world, it is used during strategy meetings, marketing presentations, and annual reports. A marketing manager might present '消費者の深層心理に対する洞察' (insights into the deep psychology of consumers).
Media
Documentaries about nature, history, or science frequently use this word to describe the 'revelations' or 'discoveries' made by researchers.

このドキュメンタリーは野生動物の生態について新たな洞察を与えてくれる。(This documentary gives us new insights into the ecology of wild animals.)

In university lectures, professors use 洞察 when discussing philosophy, sociology, or literature. It is the bridge between data and meaning.

ニーチェの哲学は、近代社会の矛盾に対する鋭い洞察に基づいている。(Nietzsche's philosophy is based on sharp insights into the contradictions of modern society.)

Interviews
Successful entrepreneurs are often asked about their '洞察' regarding the future of technology or the economy.

経営者としての彼の洞察が、会社の危機を救った。(His insight as a manager saved the company from crisis.)

AIの進化により、膨大なデータから洞察を導き出すことが可能になった。(With the evolution of AI, it has become possible to derive insights from massive amounts of data.)

Daily Life
While rare in casual chat, you might use it when discussing a deep movie or a complex friend: '彼女の洞察にはいつも驚かされる' (I'm always surprised by her insight).

彼は沈黙の中に相手の本音を読み取る洞察を持っている。(He has the insight to read the other person's true feelings within the silence.)

The most common mistake learners make is confusing 洞察 (dousatsu) with 観察 (kansatsu). While they sound similar and both involve 'looking,' they are very different. 観察 is 'observation'—it is the act of watching what is happening on the surface. For example, a scientist 'observes' (観察する) a chemical reaction. However, the 'insight' (洞察) is the conclusion drawn from that observation—the understanding of the underlying law of nature. Using 洞察 when you simply mean 'looking' will sound overly dramatic or incorrect.
Mistake 1
Using 洞察 for physical sight. You don't '洞察' a beautiful sunset; you 眺める (nagameru - gaze at) it.
Mistake 2
Confusing it with 直感 (chokkan - intuition). Intuition is a feeling; insight is a cognitive understanding.

Incorrect: 顕微鏡で細胞を洞察する。(Incorrect: Insight the cells with a microscope.) -> Correct: 観察する。

Another mistake is the misuse of the particle. Learners often say '洞察をある' instead of '洞察力がある.' Remember that 洞察 is the abstract concept, while 洞察力 is the 'power' or 'ability' that a person possesses.
Mistake 3
Overusing it in casual settings. Saying 'I had an insight about this ramen' sounds like you are a food philosopher rather than just a hungry customer.

Incorrect: 彼のネクタイが曲がっているのを洞察した。(Incorrect: I insighted that his tie was crooked.) -> Correct: 気づいた (noticed).

Correct: 彼の沈黙から、不満があることを洞察した。(Correct: From his silence, I discerned that he was dissatisfied.)

Tip
If you can replace the word with 'seeing through the surface to the truth,' then 洞察 is appropriate.
There are several words that overlap with 洞察 (dousatsu), and choosing the right one will make your Japanese sound more natural and precise. The most common alternatives are 観察 (kansatsu), 直感 (chokkan), and 見通し (mitooshi).
洞察 (Dousatsu) vs. 観察 (Kansatsu)
Kansatsu is 'observation' (seeing the surface). Dousatsu is 'insight' (seeing the hidden meaning). You observe the data to gain insight.
洞察 (Dousatsu) vs. 直感 (Chokkan)
Chokkan is 'intuition' or 'gut feeling.' It is fast and often lacks a conscious logical process. Dousatsu is more intellectual and analytical.

彼は直感で答えを選んだが、彼女は洞察によって答えを導き出した。(He chose the answer by intuition, but she derived it through insight.)

Another similar word is 眼光 (gankou), which literally means 'glint in the eye' but figuratively refers to one's ability to see the truth. However, 眼光 is much more literary and less common in modern business contexts than 洞察.
見通し (Mitooshi)
Mitooshi means 'outlook' or 'forecast.' While 洞察 looks deep into the present/essence, 見通し looks forward into the future.

将来の見通しを立てるためには、現状への鋭い洞察が必要だ。(To make a forecast for the future, sharp insight into the current situation is necessary.)

慧眼 (Keigan)
A very formal/literary term for 'a discerning eye.' You might use this to compliment a superior's wisdom: '部長の慧眼には恐れ入ります' (I am impressed by your discerning eye, Manager).

彼女は洞察力だけでなく、決断力も備えている。(She possesses not only insight but also decisiveness.)

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The kanji 洞 (dou) actually means a 'cave' or 'hole.' The word implies that understanding a complex problem is like entering a dark cave and using your intelligence to see what's hidden inside.

발음 가이드

UK dɒʊ.sæ.tsu
US doʊ.sɑ.tsu
Pitch accent is on 'sa' (Low-High-Low: ど・う・さ・つ).
라임이 맞는 단어
こうさつ (kousatsu - consideration) ほうさつ (housatsu - busy) とうさつ (tousatsu - surreptitious filming) きょうさつ (kyousatsu - strangulation) ちょうさつ (chousatsu - investigation) じょうさつ (jousatsu - lock) びょうさつ (byousatsu - instant kill) りょうさつ (ryousatsu - understanding)
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing 'dou' too short like 'do'. It must be a long vowel.
  • Mispronouncing 'tsu' as 'su'.
  • Stressing the first syllable too hard.
  • Confusing the pitch accent with 'dousatsu' (slaughter - different kanji: 屠殺, though rare).
  • Not distinguishing the 'n' sound properly if followed by a vowel (though not applicable here).

난이도

독해 4/5

Kanji are N2 level, but the concept is abstract.

쓰기 4/5

Writing '察' can be tricky for beginners.

말하기 3/5

Pronunciation is easy, but finding the right context is hard.

듣기 3/5

Clear pronunciation, often heard in news and documentaries.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

観察 (kansatsu) 察する (sassuru) 理解 (rikai) 見る (miru) 考える (kangaeru)

다음에 배울 것

看破 (kanpa) 慧眼 (keigan) 推論 (suiron) 分析 (bunseki) 本質 (honshitsu)

고급

透徹 (toutetsu) 深遠 (shinen) 核心 (kakushin) 直観 (chokkan) 思索 (shisaku)

알아야 할 문법

~に対する (Tai-suru)

社会に対する洞察 (Insight toward society)

~に富む (Ni-tomu)

洞察に富む話 (A story rich in insight)

~を通じて (O-tsuujite)

経験を通じて洞察を得る (Gain insight through experience)

~こそ (Koso - Emphasis)

洞察こそが重要だ (Insight is what's important)

~における (Ni-okeru)

ビジネスにおける洞察 (Insight in business)

수준별 예문

1

彼はいい洞察を持っています。

He has good insight.

Simple noun usage with 'motte imasu' (has).

2

洞察は大切です。

Insight is important.

Subject marker 'wa' with an adjective 'taisetsu'.

3

本を読んで洞察を得る。

Read a book and gain insight.

Verb 'eru' (to gain) used with 'dousatsu'.

4

彼の洞察はすごいです。

His insight is amazing.

Possessive 'no' with 'sugoi' (amazing).

5

洞察力がありますか?

Do you have insight?

Using 'dousatsuryoku' (the power of insight).

6

先生の洞察をきく。

Listen to the teacher's insight.

Object marker 'o' with 'kiku' (to listen).

7

洞察を使って問題を解く。

Use insight to solve the problem.

Te-form 'tsukatte' (using) to show means.

8

新しい洞察がほしいです。

I want new insights.

Adjective 'atarashii' (new) with 'hoshii' (want).

1

彼女は鋭い洞察力を持っている。

She has sharp insight.

Adjective 'surudoi' (sharp) modifying 'dousatsuryoku'.

2

この映画には深い洞察がある。

This movie has deep insight.

Adjective 'fukai' (deep) used for abstract concepts.

3

ビジネスには洞察が必要です。

Insight is necessary for business.

Particle 'ni wa' indicating necessity for a specific field.

4

彼は市場を洞察している。

He is discerning the market.

Verb form 'dousatsu shite iru' (is discerning).

5

あなたの洞察を聞かせてください。

Please let me hear your insight.

Causative-te form 'kikasete kudasai' (please let me hear).

6

失敗から洞察を得た。

I gained insight from failure.

Particle 'kara' (from) showing the source.

7

洞察力が高い人は人気がある。

People with high insight are popular.

Adjective 'takai' (high) used with 'dousatsuryoku'.

8

歴史の洞察を深める。

Deepen one's insight into history.

Verb 'fukameru' (to deepen) used transitively.

1

データから貴重な洞察を引き出す。

Extract valuable insights from data.

Verb 'hikidasu' (to pull out/extract).

2

彼の意見は洞察に富んでいる。

His opinion is rich in insight.

Phrase 'ni tonde iru' (is rich in).

3

社会問題に対する洞察を深めるべきだ。

We should deepen our insight into social issues.

Auxiliary verb 'beki da' (should).

4

その作家の洞察は非常に鋭い。

That author's insight is extremely sharp.

Adverb 'hijou ni' (extremely) for emphasis.

5

心理学を学んで、人間への洞察を得た。

By studying psychology, I gained insight into humans.

Te-form 'manande' showing cause/reason.

6

的確な洞察がプロジェクトを成功させた。

Accurate insight led the project to success.

Causative verb 'seikou saseta' (made successful).

7

彼女の洞察にはいつも感心させられる。

I am always impressed by her insight.

Passive-causative form 'kanshin saserareru'.

8

洞察力を養うために、本をたくさん読む。

In order to cultivate insight, I read many books.

Verb 'yashinau' (to cultivate/nurture).

1

経営者には、時代の流れを読む洞察力が求められる。

Managers are required to have the insight to read the trends of the times.

Passive verb 'motomerareru' (is required).

2

この論文は、現代社会の矛盾を鋭く洞察している。

This thesis provides a sharp insight into the contradictions of modern society.

Adverbial usage of 'surudoku' with the verb 'dousatsu suru'.

3

彼は、沈黙の裏にある相手の意図を洞察した。

He discerned the other person's intention behind the silence.

Compound particle 'no ura ni aru' (lying behind).

4

科学的な洞察が、長年の謎を解明する鍵となった。

Scientific insight became the key to solving the long-standing mystery.

Noun phrase 'toki-akasu kagi' (key to solving).

5

投資家として成功するには、市場の本質を洞察する必要がある。

To succeed as an investor, one needs to discern the essence of the market.

Conditional 'ni wa' (in order to).

6

彼女の言葉には、人生に対する深い洞察が込められている。

Her words are imbued with deep insight into life.

Passive verb 'komerarete iru' (is contained/imbued).

7

多角的な視点から問題を洞察することが重要だ。

It is important to discern the problem from multiple perspectives.

Adjective 'takakuteki na' (multi-faceted).

8

そのドキュメンタリーは、環境破壊の現状を冷徹に洞察していた。

The documentary coolly discerned the current state of environmental destruction.

Adverb 'reitetsu ni' (coolly/dispassionately).

1

哲学者は存在の本質を洞察しようと試みる。

Philosophers attempt to discern the essence of existence.

Volitional form 'dousatsu shiyou' + 'to kokoro miru' (attempt to).

2

彼の洞察は、単なる推測の域を遥かに超えている。

His insight far exceeds the realm of mere conjecture.

Phrase 'iki o haruka ni koete iru' (far exceeds the realm).

3

組織の腐敗を洞察し、改革を断行した。

He discerned the corruption of the organization and carried out reforms.

Conjunction using the stem 'dousatsu shi' for formal writing.

4

優れた文学作品は、時代を超えた人間性への洞察を提供する。

Great literary works provide insights into humanity that transcend time.

Adjective 'jidai o koeta' (transcending time).

5

専門家の洞察によれば、この傾向は今後も続くと予想される。

According to expert insight, this trend is expected to continue.

Compound particle 'ni yoreba' (according to).

6

彼女は直感と洞察を巧みに使い分ける。

She skillfully uses intuition and insight for different purposes.

Verb 'tsukaiwakeru' (to use different things for different purposes).

7

歴史的洞察を欠いた政策は、しばしば失敗に終わる。

Policies lacking historical insight often end in failure.

Relative clause 'dousatsu o kaita' (lacking insight).

8

彼の透徹した洞察力は、周囲の人々を驚嘆させた。

His transparent and clear insight amazed those around him.

Verb 'kyoutan saseta' (caused wonder/amazement).

1

その思想家の洞察は、現代文明の根幹を揺るがすものであった。

The thinker's insight was something that shook the very foundations of modern civilization.

Noun phrase 'konkan o yurugasu mono' (something that shakes the foundation).

2

宗教的洞察を通じて、彼は心の安らぎを見出した。

Through religious insight, he found peace of mind.

Compound particle 'o tsuujite' (through/via).

3

マクロ経済に対する彼の洞察は、冷徹かつ的確である。

His insight into macroeconomics is both dispassionate and accurate.

Conjunction 'katsu' (and/as well as) for formal adjectives.

4

芸術家は、日常の何気ない風景の中に宇宙的な洞察を見出す。

Artists find cosmic insights within the casual scenery of everyday life.

Adjective 'uchuuteki na' (cosmic/universal).

5

この研究は、言語と認知の相関関係について深遠な洞察を与えている。

This research provides profound insight into the correlation between language and cognition.

Adjective 'shinen na' (profound/deep).

6

彼の洞察は、しばしば逆説的な真理を突いている。

His insights often strike at paradoxical truths.

Verb 'tsuite iru' (striking/hitting) a point.

7

自己への徹底的な洞察こそが、真の自由への道である。

Thorough self-insight is the very path to true freedom.

Emphasis particle 'koso' (precisely/the very).

8

政治的洞察力を欠く指導者は、国家を危うくする。

A leader lacking political insight endangers the nation.

Verb 'ayauku suru' (to endanger).

동의어

見通し 見識 看破 直感 眼力

자주 쓰는 조합

鋭い洞察
深い洞察
洞察を得る
洞察力を養う
洞察に富む
本質を洞察する
洞察を加える
心理的洞察
歴史的洞察
的確な洞察

자주 쓰는 구문

洞察力がある

— To have the ability of insight.

彼は非常に洞察力がある。

洞察を深める

— To deepen one's insight into a subject.

この問題についての洞察を深める。

洞察を与える

— To provide or give insight to others.

このデータは我々に洞察を与えてくれる。

洞察を示す

— To demonstrate or show insight.

彼は議論の中で鋭い洞察を示した。

洞察が働く

— One's insight is functioning or active.

危機に際して彼の洞察が働いた。

鋭い洞察眼

— A sharp, discerning eye for insight.

彼女は鋭い洞察眼を持っている。

洞察の対象

— The object or target of one's insight.

人間の本質が彼の洞察の対象だ。

洞察を欠く

— To lack insight.

彼の行動は洞察を欠いている。

独自の洞察

— One's own unique insight.

彼は市場について独自の洞察を持っている。

科学的洞察

— Insight based on scientific methods.

科学的洞察が発見には不可欠だ。

자주 혼동되는 단어

洞察 vs 観察 (kansatsu)

Kansatsu is just watching; dousatsu is understanding the hidden meaning.

洞察 vs 直感 (chokkan)

Chokkan is a fast feeling; dousatsu is a deep intellectual understanding.

洞察 vs 推測 (suisoku)

Suisoku is a guess; dousatsu is a deep discernment based on essence.

관용어 및 표현

"眼光紙背に徹す"

— To read so deeply that your gaze goes through the paper; extreme insight.

彼の読書は眼光紙背に徹している。

Literary
"一を聞いて十を知る"

— To hear one thing and know ten; to be very perceptive.

彼は一を聞いて十を知る洞察力の持ち主だ。

Common
"裏を読む"

— To read between the lines or see hidden intentions.

相手の言葉の裏を読む洞察力が必要だ。

Neutral
"核心を突く"

— To strike at the core/heart of the matter.

彼の洞察は常に問題の核心を突いている。

Neutral
"目から鱗が落ちる"

— Scales falling from one's eyes; gaining a sudden insight.

彼の洞察を聞いて、目から鱗が落ちた。

Common
"一瞥して見抜く"

— To see through something with a single glance.

彼は一瞥してその偽物を見抜く洞察力があった。

Literary
"深層心理を探る"

— To probe the deep psychology/underlying mind.

洞察によって相手の深層心理を探る。

Academic
"先を見通す"

— To see through to the future; foresight.

時代の先を見通す洞察力が求められる。

Neutral
"本質を見極める"

— To see through to the essence of things.

洞察力を磨き、本質を見極める。

Formal
"虚実を見分ける"

— To distinguish between truth and falsehood.

情報の虚実を見分ける洞察力が必要だ。

Formal

혼동하기 쉬운

洞察 vs 察する (sassuru)

Same kanji 'satsu'.

Sassuru is often used for 'guessing someone's feelings' or 'sensing' something, often more social.

彼の気持ちを察する。

洞察 vs 見抜く (minuku)

Similar meaning.

Minuku is a verb and often used for seeing through lies or secrets specifically.

嘘を見抜く。

洞察 vs 分析 (bunseki)

Both involve deep thought.

Bunseki is the logical breakdown of data; dousatsu is the resulting deep understanding.

データを分析して洞察を得る。

洞察 vs 慧眼 (keigan)

Synonyms.

Keigan is much more formal and used almost exclusively as a high-level compliment.

先生の慧眼に驚きました。

洞察 vs 見識 (kenshiki)

Both mean high understanding.

Kenshiki refers more to one's overall judgment and wisdom accumulated over time.

見識のある人。

문장 패턴

B2

~に対する鋭い洞察

人間心理に対する鋭い洞察。

B2

~から洞察を得る

歴史から洞察を得る。

B2

洞察に富む~

洞察に富む意見。

C1

~を洞察する力

物事の本質を洞察する力。

C1

~の深層を洞察する

問題の深層を洞察する。

C2

~という洞察に至る

真理は一つであるという洞察に至る。

C2

~への透徹した洞察

未来への透徹した洞察。

B1

洞察力がある

彼は洞察力がある。

어휘 가족

명사

洞察力 (dousatsuryoku - power of insight)
洞察眼 (dousatsugan - insightful eye)

동사

洞察する (dousatsu suru - to discern/gain insight)

형용사

洞察的な (dousatsuteki na - insightful)

관련

観察 (kansatsu)
察する (sassuru)
洞穴 (douketsu)
透視 (toushi)
理解 (rikai)

사용법

frequency

Common in professional and written Japanese; rare in casual speech.

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 洞察 instead of 観察 for simple watching. 顕微鏡で細胞を観察する。

    You observe (観察) cells; you don't 'insight' them physically.

  • Saying '洞察をある' for 'having insight'. 洞察力がある。

    You must use the 'ryoku' (power) suffix when describing a person's attribute.

  • Using 洞察 for a gut feeling. 直感でそう思った。

    A gut feeling is '直感' (chokkan). 洞察 is more analytical.

  • Using 洞察 in a very casual, non-deep context. 気づいたんだけど...

    Saying you had an 'insight' about a snack sounds weirdly formal. Use 'noticed' (kizuita) instead.

  • Confusing 洞察 (insight) with 屠殺 (slaughter). 洞察 (dousatsu)

    Though the sounds are similar, the kanji and context are worlds apart. Be careful with pitch accent.

Use with 'Surudoi'

The most natural pairing for 洞察 is '鋭い' (surudoi). If you want to sound like a native speaker, use '鋭い洞察' to describe a really good point someone made.

Business Context

In a Japanese business report, instead of just saying 'summary,' use '洞察' (Insights) for the section where you explain what the data actually means for the future.

The 'Power' Suffix

Don't forget the '力' (ryoku) suffix. '洞察' is the act/concept, but '洞察力' is the skill. Use the latter when talking about someone's abilities.

Look for the Essence

Remember that 洞察 is about '本質' (honshitsu - essence). If you aren't talking about the core of a problem, 洞察 might be too strong a word.

Essay Writing

When writing JLPT N2 or N1 essays, using '洞察' shows a high level of vocabulary and abstract thinking capability.

Complimenting

To compliment a teacher or boss politely, say '先生の洞察にはいつも学ばされます' (I always learn from your insights).

Kanji Recognition

Focus on the 'cave' radical in 洞. It helps you remember the 'deep' nature of the word's meaning.

News Keywords

When you hear 'dousatsu' on NHK, pay close attention—it usually precedes the most important part of the analysis.

Synonym Check

If you are seeing through a trick, use '看破' (kanpa). If you are understanding a person, use '洞察' (dousatsu).

Zen Influence

Consider the Zen aspect of 'seeing things as they are.' 洞察 is a key part of mindfulness and deep thinking in Japanese culture.

암기하기

기억법

Think of a 'Dough' (洞) 'Sauce' (察). If you look deep into the dough, you can see the ingredients of the sauce. Insight is seeing what's inside the dough!

시각적 연상

Imagine a magnifying glass looking through a solid wall to see a golden key on the other side.

Word Web

Mind Deep Truth Analysis Seeing Hidden Wisdom Strategy

챌린지

Try to use '洞察' in a sentence about your favorite book or movie today.

어원

Derived from Classical Chinese (Sino-Japanese vocabulary).

원래 의미: To look deep into a cave and examine its contents.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

문화적 맥락

No specific sensitivities, but avoid using it for trivial things as it might sound sarcastic.

In English, 'insight' can be casual (e.g., 'thanks for the insight'), but in Japanese, 洞察 is strictly formal.

Detective Conan (often uses insight to solve crimes) The Art of War (Sun Tzu - emphasizes insight into the enemy) Natsume Soseki's novels (rich in psychological insight)

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Business Strategy

  • 市場の洞察
  • 戦略的洞察
  • 洞察を共有する
  • データに基づく洞察

Psychology

  • 自己洞察
  • 深層心理の洞察
  • 患者の洞察
  • 洞察療法

Literature/Art

  • 人間性への洞察
  • 鋭い洞察力
  • 洞察に満ちた描写
  • 作家の洞察

Politics/News

  • 国際情勢の洞察
  • 政治的洞察
  • 専門家の洞察
  • 鋭い洞察を加える

Daily Wisdom

  • 人生の洞察
  • 洞察を深める
  • 鋭い洞察眼
  • 的確な洞察

대화 시작하기

"その問題について、何か新しい洞察は得られましたか? (Have you gained any new insights into that problem?)"

"彼の洞察力についてはどう思いますか? (What do you think about his power of insight?)"

"この本は人間関係についての洞察に富んでいますね。 (This book is rich in insight into human relationships, isn't it?)"

"どうすれば鋭い洞察力を養うことができるでしょうか? (How can one cultivate sharp insight?)"

"あなたのこれまでの経験から得た最大の洞察は何ですか? (What is the greatest insight you've gained from your experience so far?)"

일기 주제

今日、自分自身について新しく洞察したことを書いてください。 (Write about a new insight you gained about yourself today.)

最近読んだ本や見た映画の中で、最も洞察に満ちていた場面は何ですか? (What was the most insightful scene in a book you read or a movie you saw recently?)

仕事や勉強において、洞察力が役立った経験を記述してください。 (Describe an experience where your insight was helpful in work or study.)

社会の矛盾について、あなた自身の洞察を述べてください。 (State your own insights regarding the contradictions in society.)

「観察」と「洞察」の違いについて、自分の言葉で説明してください。 (Explain the difference between 'observation' and 'insight' in your own words.)

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

観察 (kansatsu) means 'observation' and focuses on what can be seen on the surface. 洞察 (dousatsu) means 'insight' and focuses on understanding the hidden essence or truth that is not immediately visible. For example, you observe a person's behavior (観察) to gain insight into their true feelings (洞察).

It is quite formal, so using it with friends might sound a bit stiff or academic. However, if you are discussing a deep topic like a movie or a book, it is perfectly fine. In everyday casual chat, words like '気づき' (kizuki - realization) or 'わかる' (wakaru) are more common.

It is primarily a noun. To use it as a verb, you add 'する' to make '洞察する.' However, it's very common to use it in phrases like '洞察を得る' (gain insight) or '洞察力がある' (have insight).

The kanji 洞 (dou) means 'cave' or 'hollow.' Metaphorically, it implies looking deep into a dark, hidden place (like a cave) to see what is really there. This gives the word its nuance of 'penetrating' or 'seeing through' something.

The most natural way to say someone is insightful is '洞察力がある' (dousatsuryoku ga aru) or '洞察に富んでいる' (dousatsu ni tonde iru).

While related, they are different. Intuition (直感 - chokkan) is a sudden feeling or 'gut instinct.' 洞察 (dousatsu) is a deeper, more analytical understanding of the 'why' behind something.

The most common ones are '鋭い' (surudoi - sharp), '深い' (fukai - deep), and '的確な' (tekikaku na - accurate).

Yes, it is often used to describe the 'insight' that leads a scientist to a new theory or discovery after long observation and analysis.

It is '自己洞察' (jiko dousatsu). It refers to the ability to understand one's own psychological state and motivations deeply.

Yes, it is often used to translate words like 'discernment' or 'understanding' in a spiritual context, referring to seeing God's truth or the nature of existence.

셀프 테스트 180 질문

writing

Write a sentence using '洞察力'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'I gained insight into human nature.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a formal sentence about 'market insight'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'I want insight' in Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Combine 'sharp' and 'insight' into a phrase.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'This book is rich in insight.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Describe 'self-insight' using Japanese.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'to deepen insight'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Accurate insight is necessary.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence using '洞察' as a verb.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'He is insightful'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Valuable insight'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about 'scientific insight'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Insight transcending time'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'to provide insight'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Insight into society'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write a sentence about 'historical insight'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'sharp insight eyes'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'I was impressed by his insight.'

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'psychological insight'.

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

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'He has sharp insight' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I want to gain more insight into this' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

How would you compliment a boss's insight?

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Insight is very important' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I learned a lot from your insight'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explain the difference between observation and insight.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'This data gives us valuable insights'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I want to cultivate my insight'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'His opinion is rich in insight'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Discuss 'historical insight' in a sentence.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I don't have insight'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Let's deepen our insight together'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Accurate insight led to success'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'She discerned the truth immediately'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I like your insight'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'This is a deep insight'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Psychological insight is interesting'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Insight helps solve problems'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I gained insight from the movie'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Penetrative insight is a talent'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the word 'dousatsu' and identify its meaning.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Identify the adjective used with 'dousatsu' in 'surudoi dousatsu'.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What verb follows 'dousatsu' in 'dousatsu o eru'?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

How many syllables are in 'dousatsu'?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

In 'dousatsuryoku ga aru', what does 'ryoku' mean?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What is the pitch of 'dou' in 'dousatsu'?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Which field is mentioned in 'shijou no dousatsu'?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Is the 'u' in 'dou' long or short?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What is being deepened in 'dousatsu o fukameru'?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Which formal synonym sounds like 'keigan'?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

In 'dousatsu ni tomu', what does 'tomu' mean?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What particle marks the object in 'dousatsu o kuwaeru'?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Identify the word: 'jiko dousatsu'.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Does 'dousatsu' sound like 'kansatsu'?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

What is the object of insight in 'human nature'? (Japanese word)

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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