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献血する

B1 verb #7,000 most common 11 min read

献血する

kenketsu suru Top 7,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 献血する in 30 Seconds

Explanation 献血する in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn 'Kenketsu suru' as a simple action word for 'giving blood.' You don't need to know the complex medical terms, but you should recognize the kanji for 'blood' (血). Think of it as a special kind of 'giving' that happens at a hospital or a special bus (Kenketsu-sha). You might use it in basic sentences like 'I go to the station. I donate blood.' It's a good word to know because you will see the signs for it everywhere in Japan, often with a cute mascot. Just remember: Kenketsu = Blood + Give.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'Kenketsu suru' with basic particles. For example, 'Eki de kenketsu shimasu' (I donate blood at the station). You should also learn the negative and past forms: 'Kenketsu shimashita' (I donated) and 'Kenketsu shimasen' (I don't donate). You might start to understand the social aspect, like why people do it. You can also recognize the word 'Kenketsu Room,' which is a place where people go to give blood and get free snacks. It's a useful word for talking about your weekend activities or health habits.

At the B1 level, you should be able to explain the process and your reasons for donating. You can use 'Kenketsu suru' in complex sentences like 'I donate blood because I want to help people' (Hito o tasuketai kara, kenketsu shimasu). You should also understand the difference between 'Kenketsu' (donation) and 'Saiketsu' (blood test). At this level, you can navigate a conversation at a donation center, answering basic questions about your health and travel history. You understand that 'kenketsu' is a 'suru' verb and can use its potential form 'kenketsu dekiru' to discuss eligibility.

At the B2 level, you should be familiar with the different types of donation, such as 'Zenketsu' (whole blood) and 'Seibun kenketsu' (component donation). You can discuss the social importance of blood donation in Japan, such as the impact of an aging population on blood supplies. You can use the word in formal contexts, such as writing a short essay on volunteerism or participating in a debate about medical ethics. You understand the nuance of the kanji '献' (offering) and how it reflects Japanese cultural values of self-sacrifice and community support.

At the C1 level, you can use 'Kenketsu suru' in professional or academic discussions. You might analyze public health campaigns by the Japanese Red Cross or discuss the legal framework surrounding voluntary blood donation in Japan. You are comfortable with related technical terms like 'hemo-gurobin chi' (hemoglobin levels) and 'tekigousei' (compatibility). You can understand and summarize news reports about regional blood shortages and the logistical challenges of transporting blood products after a disaster. Your usage of the word is indistinguishable from a native speaker's in terms of register and context.

At the C2 level, you possess a deep understanding of the sociopolitical and historical nuances of 'Kenketsu suru.' You can discuss the evolution of the blood donation system in Japan, from the early days of paid 'yellow blood' (ouchoku) to the current purely voluntary system. You can engage in high-level bioethical debates regarding blood-derived medicines and the future of synthetic blood. You understand poetic or literary references to blood donation and can use the term with absolute precision in any setting, from a medical symposium to a philosophical discussion on the nature of altruism.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

献血する in 30 Seconds

Kenketsu suru means 'to donate blood' and is a common civic activity in Japan.
It is a B1-level suru-verb used in both daily conversation and formal news reports.
Japan has a strictly voluntary (unpaid) blood donation system managed by the Red Cross.
Donors often visit 'Kenketsu Rooms' near stations which offer snacks and drinks as a thank-you.

The Japanese word 献血する (Kenketsu suru) is a compound verb that literally translates to "offering blood." It is composed of two kanji: 献 (ken), which means to offer, present, or dedicate, and 血 (ketsu), which means blood. Together, they form the formal and everyday term for the act of voluntarily donating blood for medical purposes, such as transfusions or research. In Japan, blood donation is viewed as a significant civic duty and a supreme act of kindness, often promoted through vibrant public health campaigns and the ubiquitous mascot 'Kenketsu-chan,' a cute character with blood-drop-shaped ears.

Social Context: In Japanese society, the act of kenketsu is highly structured. You will frequently see 'Kenketsu Rooms' (献血ルーム) located in major city centers, often near train stations. These are not sterile, scary clinics but rather comfortable, lounge-like spaces where donors can enjoy free drinks, snacks, and even read manga while they wait. This creates a welcoming environment that encourages repeat donations, particularly among the youth who might use the space to study or relax after the procedure.

週末、駅前の献血ルームで献血することにしました。
(I decided to donate blood at the donation room in front of the station this weekend.)

The term is used across all levels of formality, though in very casual speech, someone might say 'chi o ageru' (give blood), but kenketsu suru remains the standard and most respected way to describe the act. It is a 'suru' verb, meaning it follows the standard conjugation patterns of irregular Japanese verbs. You will hear it in news reports discussing blood shortages during winter months, in school announcements, and in workplace health seminars. Understanding this word also opens a window into Japan's unique culture regarding blood types (ketsuekigata), where your blood group is often linked to personality traits, making the act of 'sharing' your specific type feel more personal and meaningful.

Etymology Deep Dive: The first kanji 献 (Ken) is particularly interesting. Historically, it was used for offerings made to deities or emperors. By using this kanji instead of a simpler word for 'give,' the Japanese language elevates the act of blood donation to a level of sacrifice and sacred contribution to the community. The second kanji 血 (Ketsu) is a pictograph representing blood in a sacrificial vessel. Thus, the word itself carries a weight of historical and spiritual significance that transcends modern medicine.

多くの人の命を救うために、定期的に献血することは大切です。
(It is important to donate blood regularly to save many people's lives.)

Furthermore, the word is used in the context of 'Kenketsu-sha' (blood donation buses) that travel to universities and corporate offices. These buses are a common sight during disaster relief efforts, where 'kenketsu suru' becomes a rallying cry for national solidarity. In literature and media, characters who kenketsu suru are often portrayed as selfless, reliable, and empathetic, reinforcing the positive social stigma associated with the term.

Register and Usage: While 'kenketsu' is a noun, adding 'suru' makes it a dynamic action. In formal documents, you might see 'kenketsu o okonau' (to perform blood donation), but in daily conversation, 'kenketsu suru' is the go-to phrase. It is rarely abbreviated, as the word is already concise and its components are vital to its meaning. Using it correctly demonstrates a B1-level grasp of social vocabulary and an understanding of Japanese civic life.

Using 献血する correctly requires understanding its grammatical behavior as a 'suru' verb. It can take direct objects or be used as an intransitive-style action depending on the focus of the sentence. Often, the place where you donate is marked with the particle で (de), and the purpose is often marked with ために (tame ni).

Basic Conjugation: To say 'I will donate,' use 献血します (kenketsu shimasu). For 'I donated,' use 献血しました (kenketsu shimashita). If you are inviting someone, you might say 献血しませんか (kenketsu shimasen ka?). The negative form is 献血しない (kenketsu shinai), which might be used when explaining a medical deferral, such as 'Today I cannot donate blood' (今日は献血できません).

初めて献血するときは、少し緊張しました。
(When I donated blood for the first time, I was a little nervous.)

When discussing the frequency of donation, you can use time-related adverbs. For example, 'teikiteki ni kenketsu suru' (to donate blood regularly) is a common phrase in health advice. You can also specify the type of donation. 'Zenketsu (whole blood) o kenketsu suru' is technically possible but redundant; usually, you just say 'Zenketsu o suru' or 'Kenketsu suru' generally. Another common pattern is 'Kenketsu ni iku' (to go to donate blood), which focuses on the movement to the donation center.

Advanced Usage: Potential and Passive: The potential form 献血できる (kenketsu dekiru) is vital for discussing eligibility. For instance, 'Wait three days after taking medicine before you can donate blood' (薬を飲んだ後は三日間献血できません). The passive form 献血される (kenketsu sareru) is rare because the blood itself isn't the subject usually; instead, we use 'transfused' (yuketsu sareru) for the recipient's side.

海外から帰国したばかりの人は、一定期間献血することができません。
(People who have just returned from overseas cannot donate blood for a certain period.)

In professional settings, the verb might be nominalized: 'Kenketsu suru koto wa shakaiteki sekinin desu' (Donating blood is a social responsibility). This '-koto' nominalization allows the verb to function as the subject of a complex sentence discussing ethics, health policy, or community service. When paired with helper verbs like '-te miru' (try doing), as in 'Kenketsu shite mita' (I tried donating blood), it conveys a sense of personal experience or taking a new step in one's life.

You will encounter 献血する in a variety of real-world scenarios in Japan, ranging from public service announcements to casual conversations among friends. One of the most common places is the 'Kenketsu Room' (献血ルーム). These are often located in high-traffic areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, or near the main exits of major JR stations. Inside, you'll hear staff using the word politely: 'Kyou wa kenketsu shite itadakemasu ka?' (Would you be able to donate blood today?).

Public Service Announcements (PSAs): On television or radio, especially during the winter or after a natural disaster, the Japanese Red Cross (Nippon Sekijyusha) will air commercials asking people to kenketsu suru. They might say, 'Ketsueki ga fusoku shite imasu. Kenketsu ni gokyouryoku kudasai' (Blood is in short supply. Please cooperate with blood donation). The word carries a tone of urgency and communal support in these contexts.

「現在、O型の血液が足りません。献血することができる方はお願いします。」
(Currently, Type O blood is insufficient. Those who can donate blood, please do so.)

In universities, student councils often organize 'Kenketsu Days.' You'll see posters with the verb prominently displayed. Students might talk to each other saying, 'Jugyou no ato ni kenketsu shinai?' (Want to donate blood after class?). Because of the snacks and the feeling of doing something good, it's a common social activity for young Japanese people. You might also hear it in the workplace, as many large Japanese corporations invite blood donation buses to their offices once or twice a year as part of their CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) activities.

News and Media: News anchors use kenketsu suru when reporting on medical statistics or health trends. For instance, a report might discuss the declining number of young people who kenketsu suru, leading to concerns about future blood supplies. In dramas or anime, a character might kenketsu suru to show their heroic or caring nature, often accompanied by a scene where they receive a small gift or a 'thank you' card.

ニュースによると、若者の献血する割合が減っているそうです。
(According to the news, the percentage of young people who donate blood is decreasing.)

Lastly, you'll see the word on the 'Kenketsu Card' or the digital app 'Loveblood' (ラブラッド) used by the Red Cross. The app tracks how many times you have kenketsu shita and when you are eligible to donate again. Hearing or seeing this word in Japan is almost always associated with a sense of community, health awareness, and the quiet, organized efficiency of the Japanese medical system.

While 献血する is a straightforward verb, English speakers often make several nuanced mistakes when using it in a Japanese context. The most common error is confusing it with other blood-related terms or using the wrong verb to describe the act of 'giving.'

Confusing Kenketsu with Saiketsu: A frequent mistake is using 献血 (kenketsu) when you actually mean 採血 (saiketsu). 'Saiketsu' means 'drawing blood' for a medical test or check-up. If you go to the hospital for a physical and tell the doctor 'Kenketsu shitai desu' (I want to donate blood), they will be confused, as they are there to test your blood, not take it for a donation bank. Always use saiketsu for tests and kenketsu for donations.

❌ 健康診断で献血する。
✅ 健康診断で採血する。
(Correct: Having blood drawn at a health check-up.)

Another mistake is the redundant use of the particle 'o' with 'chi' (blood). In English, we say 'donate blood,' but because kenketsu literally contains the kanji for blood, saying 'chi o kenketsu suru' is like saying 'donate blood-blood.' It's not grammatically 'wrong' in a strict sense, but it sounds very unnatural to native ears. Just say 'kenketsu suru.'

Mixing up Kenketsu and Yuketsu: Learners sometimes mix up 献血 (kenketsu - donation) and 輸血 (yuketsu - transfusion). Remember: 'Ken' (献) is about giving/offering, while 'Yu' (輸) is about transporting/exporting. If you are the one receiving blood because of an injury, you are receiving a yuketsu, not a kenketsu. Confusing these can lead to serious misunderstandings in a medical setting.

❌ 手術中に献血する。
✅ 手術中に輸血を受ける。
(Correct: Receiving a transfusion during surgery.)

Lastly, be careful with the potential form. Many learners say 'kenketsu shitai' (I want to donate), but if they are rejected due to low iron or travel history, they might say 'kenketsu shinakatta' (I didn't donate). While true, it's more accurate to say 'kenketsu dekimasen deshita' (I wasn't able to donate), as it clarifies that the intent was there but the medical requirements were not met. This distinction is important in Japanese culture where intent and effort are highly valued.

To truly master the vocabulary surrounding blood donation, it's helpful to look at 献血する alongside its synonyms, related terms, and more technical alternatives. While kenketsu suru is the most common term, other words provide different nuances depending on whether you are in a hospital, a laboratory, or a casual setting.

血液提供 (Ketsueki Teikyo): This literally means 'provision of blood.' It is a more formal, slightly more academic or legalistic way to say 'donating blood.' You might see this in research papers or formal contracts regarding medical studies. While kenketsu focuses on the act of giving, ketsueki teikyo focuses on the blood as a resource being provided.

研究のために血液を提供（血液提供）してください。
(Please provide blood for research purposes.)

Another related term is ドナーになる (Dona- ni naru), which means 'to become a donor.' While this can refer to blood donation, it is more commonly used for organ donation (zoki teikyo). If you say 'Kenketsu dona- ni naru,' it's perfectly clear, but usually, people just use the verb kenketsu suru for the specific act of giving blood.

Specific Types of Donation: Inside a donation center, you will hear 全血献血 (Zenketsu Kenketsu) and 成分献血 (Seibun Kenketsu). Zenketsu is 'whole blood,' where everything is taken. Seibun is 'component' donation, where only plasma or platelets are taken and the red blood cells are returned to your body. Using these specific terms shows a very high level of Japanese proficiency.

今日は時間がたっぷりあるので、成分献血をすることにしました。
(Since I have plenty of time today, I decided to do a component blood donation.)

For the opposite action—receiving blood—the word is 輸血 (yuketsu). If you are describing a situation where a patient needs blood, you would say 'Yuketsu ga hitsuyo desu' (A transfusion is necessary). Finally, in very casual or poetic contexts, you might hear chi o wakeru (to share one's blood), but this is usually reserved for family relations or metaphorical 'blood brothers' rather than medical donation.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The kanji '献' (Ken) originally depicted a dog being offered in a ritual, but now simply means to offer something politely.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ken.ke.tsu su.ru/

US /ken.ke.tsu su.ru/

Heiban (Flat) accent. The pitch stays relatively level throughout the word.

Rhymes With

Setsu (Section) Metsu (Destruction) Betsu (Separate) Tetsu (Iron) Zetsu (Tongue) Netsu (Heat) Retsu (Queue) Ketsu (Decision)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ken' like the English name 'Ken' (should be shorter).
Over-emphasizing the 'u' at the end of 'suru' (it's often nearly silent).
Confusing 'ketsu' with 'ketsu' (buttocks) by using the wrong pitch.
Making the 'n' sound too much like an 'm'.
Stressing the 'ke' too strongly.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Kanji are common but '献' can be tricky for beginners.

Writing 4/5

Writing '献' requires attention to stroke order.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is flat and relatively easy.

Listening 2/5

Clear, distinct sounds.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

血 (Chi) する (Suru) 病院 (Byouin) 助ける (Tasukeru) 駅 (Eki)

Learn Next

輸血 (Yuketsu) 注射 (Chuusha) 看護師 (Kangoshi) ボランティア (Borantia) 赤十字 (Sekijyusha)

Advanced

血清 (Kessei) 血小板 (Kesshouban) 血漿 (Kesshou) 骨髄移植 (Kotsuzui ishoku)

Grammar to Know

Suru-verbs

献血する、献血した、献血しない

Potential form (Dekiru)

献血できる (Can donate)

Noun + ni + iku

献血に行く (Go to donate)

Conditional ~to

献血すると、ジュースがもらえます。

Causative ~saseru

親は私に献血させた。 (My parent made me donate blood.)

Examples by Level

駅で献血しました。

I donated blood at the station.

Simple past tense of a suru-verb.

献血は大切です。

Blood donation is important.

Using the noun form 'Kenketsu' as a subject.

明日、献血しますか？

Will you donate blood tomorrow?

Question form with 'ka'.

ここで献血できますか？

Can I donate blood here?

Potential form 'dekiru'.

私は献血が好きです。

I like donating blood.

Using the noun with the 'suki' adjective.

献血ルームはどこですか？

Where is the blood donation room?

Basic 'doko desu ka' question.

献血に行きましょう。

Let's go donate blood.

Volitional form 'ikimashou'.

血を献血する。

Donate blood (slightly redundant but used by beginners).

Using 'chi o' as an object.

献血した後に、お菓子を食べました。

After donating blood, I ate some snacks.

Using 'verb-ta ato ni' (after doing...).

献血する前に、お茶をたくさん飲みました。

Before donating blood, I drank a lot of tea.

Using 'verb-ru mae ni' (before doing...).

初めて献血するので、少し怖いです。

Since it's my first time donating blood, I'm a little scared.

Using 'node' to show reason.

献血車が大学に来ました。

A blood donation bus came to the university.

Noun 'Kenketsu-sha' as a subject.

体重が足りなくて献血できませんでした。

I couldn't donate blood because I didn't weigh enough.

Negative potential past form.

献血をすると、誰かの助けになります。

If you donate blood, you will be helping someone.

Conditional 'to' showing a natural result.

週末に友達と献血しに行きます。

I'm going to go donate blood with my friend on the weekend.

Purpose of movement 'ni ikimasu'.

献血カードを忘れました。

I forgot my blood donation card.

Noun 'Kenketsu ka-do' as an object.

定期的に献血することで、健康管理もできます。

By donating blood regularly, you can also manage your health.

Using 'koto de' to show means/method.

薬を飲んでいる間は献血することができません。

While taking medicine, you cannot donate blood.

Using 'aida wa' to show duration.

最近は若者の献血する数が減っているそうです。

I heard that the number of young people donating blood is decreasing lately.

Using 'sou desu' for reported speech.

献血ルームでは、マンガを読みながら待つことができます。

In the donation room, you can wait while reading manga.

Using 'nagara' for simultaneous actions.

あなたの献血が、誰かの命を救うかもしれません。

Your blood donation might save someone's life.

Using 'kamoshirenai' for possibility.

海外旅行から帰った直後は、献血が制限されます。

Right after returning from a trip abroad, blood donation is restricted.

Passive verb 'seigen sareru'.

献血に協力してくれた人に、記念品が配られました。

Commemorative gifts were given to those who cooperated in blood donation.

Relative clause 'kenketsu ni kyouryoku shite kureta hito'.

予約してから献血に行くと、待ち時間が短くなります。

If you go to donate blood after making a reservation, the waiting time will be shorter.

Using 'te kara' (after doing...).

成分献血は全血献血よりも時間がかかりますが、体への負担は少ないです。

Component donation takes more time than whole blood donation, but it's less taxing on the body.

Comparison using 'yori mo' and 'daga'.

災害時には、多くの人々が自発的に献血するために列を作ります。

In times of disaster, many people line up to voluntarily donate blood.

Adverb 'jihatsuteki ni' (voluntarily).

献血に対する意識を高めるためのキャンペーンが実施されています。

Campaigns are being carried out to raise awareness about blood donation.

Using 'ni taisuru' (regarding/toward).

一定の基準を満たさない限り、献血することは認められません。

Unless you meet certain criteria, you are not allowed to donate blood.

Using 'kagiri' (unless/as long as).

少子高齢化の影響で、献血する世代の不足が深刻な問題となっています。

Due to the declining birthrate and aging population, the shortage of the donating generation has become a serious problem.

Using 'no eikyou de' (due to the influence of).

彼女は学生時代から、欠かさず献血し続けています。

She has continued to donate blood without fail since her student days.

Compound verb 'shi-tsuzukeru' (continue doing).

献血によって得られた血液は、厳重に管理・検査されます。

Blood obtained through donation is strictly managed and tested.

Using 'ni yotte' to show means/source.

自分の血液型を知るきっかけとして献血する人もいます。

Some people donate blood as an opportunity to find out their own blood type.

Using 'kikkake' (trigger/opportunity).

献血制度の持続可能性を確保するためには、新規ドナーの獲得が不可欠です。

In order to ensure the sustainability of the blood donation system, acquiring new donors is essential.

Formal academic vocabulary like 'fukaketsu' (essential).

輸血用血液の需要と供給のバランスを維持するのは、極めて困難な課題です。

Maintaining the balance between the demand and supply of blood for transfusions is an extremely difficult task.

Using 'kiwamete' (extremely) and 'kadai' (task/issue).

献血における倫理的な問題について、専門家の間でも議論が分かれています。

Even among experts, opinions are divided regarding ethical issues in blood donation.

Using 'ni okeru' (in/at).

血液製剤の安全性を担保するため、献血時の問診は非常に厳格に行われます。

To guarantee the safety of blood products, the medical interview during donation is conducted very strictly.

Formal verb 'tanpo suru' (guarantee/secure).

冬場は体調を崩す人が多いため、献血する人が減少し、在庫が逼迫しがちです。

In winter, because many people fall ill, the number of donors decreases, and stock tends to become tight.

Using '-gachi' to show a tendency.

献血という無償の行為が、近代医療の根幹を支えていると言っても過言ではありません。

It is no exaggeration to say that the selfless act of blood donation supports the foundation of modern medicine.

Idiomatic expression 'to itte mo kagon dewa nai'.

企業が献血活動を支援することは、社会貢献の重要な一環と見なされています。

Corporate support for blood donation activities is regarded as an important part of social contribution.

Passive form 'minasareru' (is regarded as).

献血の重要性を説く啓発活動が、小中学校の義務教育に組み込まれるべきだという意見もあります。

There are opinions that educational activities explaining the importance of blood donation should be integrated into compulsory education.

Complex noun phrase as a subject.

献血という利他的な行動の背後にある心理的動機を、進化心理学の観点から考察する。

We will examine the psychological motivations behind the altruistic behavior of blood donation from the perspective of evolutionary psychology.

Highly formal academic structure 'kousatsu suru'.

血液の有償化がもたらす倫理的退廃と、献血という無償制度の優位性を論証する。

This demonstrates the ethical decadence brought about by the commercialization of blood and the superiority of the voluntary donation system.

Formal verb 'ronshou suru' (demonstrate/prove).

献血者の善意を悪用するような事態は、いかなる理由があっても許容されるべきではない。

Situations that exploit the goodwill of blood donors should not be tolerated for any reason whatsoever.

Strong prohibitive 'kyoyou sareru beki dewa nai'.

高度な精製技術を駆使しても、献血によって得られる生血の代替品を完全に造り出すことは未だ叶わない。

Even with advanced refining technologies, it is still not possible to completely create a substitute for the live blood obtained through donation.

Literary ending 'madda kanawanai'.

献血文化の定着は、その国の市民意識の成熟度を測る一つの指標となり得るだろう。

The establishment of a blood donation culture could serve as an indicator of the maturity of a nation's civic consciousness.

Auxiliary 'uru' (possible).

稀な血液型を持つ人々が互いに献血し合うネットワークは、まさに生命の共助の極致である。

A network where people with rare blood types donate to each other is the very pinnacle of mutual life support.

Formal noun 'kyokuchi' (pinnacle/extreme).

献血という行為に付随するリスクとベネフィットを、透明性を持って社会に提示し続ける責任がある。

There is a responsibility to continue presenting the risks and benefits associated with blood donation to society with transparency.

Noun phrase 'fuzui suru risuku' (accompanying risks).

献血というミクロな善意の集積が、マクロな公衆衛生の向上に寄与しているという事実は揺るぎない。

The fact that the accumulation of micro-goodwill through blood donation contributes to the improvement of macro-public health is unshakable.

Emphatic adjective 'yuruginai' (unshakable).

Common Collocations

定期的に献血する

献血に協力する

献血を呼びかける

献血を制限する

献血を断る

献血を予約する

献血を再開する

初めて献血する

献血を控える

献血を推進する

Common Phrases

献血ルーム

— A permanent blood donation center, often very comfortable.

新宿の献血ルームはとても綺麗です。

献血車

— A mobile blood donation bus.

大学の前に献血車が止まっている。

献血カード

— A card that tracks your donation history.

献血カードを提示してください。

献血手帳

— The older booklet version of the donation card.

昔は献血手帳を使っていました。

献血記念品

— Small gifts given to donors as a thank-you.

献血記念品にタオルをもらった。

400ml献血

— A standard 400ml whole blood donation.

今日は400ml献血に挑戦した。

成分献血

— Plasma or platelet donation.

成分献血は予約が必要です。

愛の献血

— A common slogan meaning 'Blood donation of love.'

「愛の献血」キャンペーンが始まった。

献血サポーター

— Organizations or people that support donation activities.

あの企業は献血サポーターです。

献血併設

— Facilities attached to or located with donation centers.

献血併設のカフェで休む。

Often Confused With

献血する vs 採血 (Saiketsu)

Drawing blood for a test, not donation.

献血する vs 輸血 (Yuketsu)

Receiving blood (transfusion) rather than giving it.

献血する vs 出血 (Shukketsu)

Unintentional bleeding from a wound.

Idioms & Expressions

"血の通った"

— Humane, warm-hearted, or compassionate.

血の通った政治を期待する。

Metaphorical

"血を吐くような"

— Extremely painful or involving desperate effort.

血を吐くような努力をした。

Dramatic

"血が騒ぐ"

— To get excited or feel one's blood boil (with excitement).

お祭りの音を聞くと血が騒ぐ。

Casual

"血眼になる"

— To be frantic or fanatical about something.

彼は血眼になって鍵を探した。

Idiomatic

"血を引く"

— To inherit someone's blood/traits.

彼は父親の才能を血を引いている。

Neutral

"血の気が多い"

— Short-tempered or hot-headed.

彼は若くて血の気が多い。

Casual

"血も涙もない"

— Cold-blooded or heartless.

彼は血も涙もない人間だ。

Critical

"血肉となる"

— To become part of one's being (knowledge or experience).

読んだ本が私の血肉となった。

Formal

"血の滲むような"

— Involving great hardship (literally 'bleeding').

血の滲むような練習を重ねた。

Dramatic

"血が繋がっている"

— To be related by blood.

私たちは血が繋がった兄弟です。

Neutral

Easily Confused

献血する vs 採血

Both involve needles and blood.

Kenketsu is for giving to others; Saiketsu is for testing your own health.

病院で採血をした後、献血ルームへ行った。

献血する vs 輸血

Related to the same medical process.

Kenketsu is the source (donor); Yuketsu is the destination (patient).

彼の献血が、私の輸血に使われた。

献血する vs 寄付

Both mean donating.

Kifu is for money/objects; Kenketsu is specifically for blood.

お金を寄付し、血液を献血した。

献血する vs 献身

Shares the same first kanji.

Kenshin means devotion/dedication of self; Kenketsu is specifically blood.

彼女は献身的に看病した。

献血する vs 洗血

Sounds similar.

Senketsu is a rare term for washing blood; Kenketsu is donation.

N/A (Avoid using Senketsu in this context).

Sentence Patterns

[Place] で献血します。

駅で献血します。

[Verb-ta] あとに献血します。

食べたあとに献血します。

[Reason] から、献血します。

助けたいから、献血します。

[Condition] 限り、献血できません。

健康でない限り、献血できません。

[Noun] に伴い、献血が制限される。

旅行に伴い、献血が制限される。

献血という [Abstract Noun] ...

献血という利他的行為...

献血に [Action] てみる。

献血に行ってみる。

献血を [Verb-stem] 続ける。

献血をやり続ける。

Word Family

Nouns

献血 (Kenketsu - Donation)

血液 (Ketsueki - Blood)

献血者 (Kenketsusha - Donor)

Verbs

献血する (Kenketsu suru - To donate blood)

Adjectives

献身的な (Kenshinteki na - Devoted/Self-sacrificing)

輸血 (Yuketsu - Transfusion)

採血 (Saiketsu - Blood draw)

止血 (Shiketsu - Hemostasis)

貧血 (Hinketsu - Anemia)

出血 (Shukketsu - Bleeding)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in urban areas and health-related discussions.

Common Mistakes

Chi o ageru → Kenketsu suru
Using 'ageru' sounds like a physical gift rather than a medical donation.
Kenketsu o saiketsu suru → Kenketsu suru
Mixing donation and testing verbs is redundant and confusing.
Yuketsu suru (when giving) → Kenketsu suru
Yuketsu means receiving/transfusing, not donating.
Kifu suru (for blood) → Kenketsu suru
Kifu is for money; Kenketsu is the specific term for blood.
Kenketsu shita (for a test) → Saiketsu shita
Don't say you 'donated' if you only had a small amount taken for a lab test.

Tips

Enjoy the Lounge

Japanese Kenketsu Rooms are famous for being cozy. Don't rush; enjoy the free ice cream and manga after your donation.

Use the App

Download the 'Loveblood' app. It uses the word 'Kenketsu' everywhere and is a great way to practice reading medical Japanese.

Hydrate Well

Drink plenty of water before and after you 'Kenketsu suru' to avoid feeling dizzy.

Suru-Verb Rule

Remember that 'Kenketsu' can be a noun (Donation) or a verb (To donate) just by adding 'suru'.

Go with Friends

In Japan, 'Kenketsu' is often a social activity. Invite a friend to make it less intimidating.

Be Honest

During the 'monshin' (interview), be honest about your health and travel. It's for everyone's safety.

Check Eligibility

There are intervals between donations. Use your 'Kenketsu Card' to check when you can next 'Kenketsu suru'.

Meet Kenketsu-chan

Look for the character with red ears. She makes 'Kenketsu' feel friendly and approachable.

Kanji Focus

The 'blood' kanji (血) is radical 143. Learning it helps with many other words like 'Ketsueki' (Blood liquid).

Workplace Donation

If a bus comes to your office, it's a great chance to show your 'shakai kouken' (social contribution).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'Ken' doll giving a 'Ketsu' (blood/vessel) of blood to a friend. 'Ken-Ketsu'!

Visual Association

The Red Cross mascot Kenketsu-chan, a girl with large red ears that look like blood drops.

Word Web

Blood Needle Nurse Juice Manga Life Volunteer Red Cross

Challenge

Write a diary entry about your first time going to a 献血ルーム.

Word Origin

Formed in the mid-20th century as a medical compound. Before this, blood was often sold (売血), but the term 'Kenketsu' was promoted to encourage voluntary giving.

Original meaning: Offering blood (Sacrificial/Civic offering).

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Cultural Context

Japan has strict deferral rules for people who lived in Europe during certain periods due to vCJD (Mad Cow Disease) concerns.

In the US/UK, donors are often given stickers or 'I donated' badges. In Japan, you get high-quality snacks and sometimes tissues or laundry detergent.

Kenketsu-chan (Official Mascot) Japanese Red Cross Society (Nippon Sekijyusha) Loveblood App

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a train station

献血車はどこですか？
献血は何分かかりますか？
予約なしで献血できますか？
飲み物は無料ですか？

At a medical interview

薬を飲んでいます。
最近海外へ行きました。
体調は良いです。
初めての献血です。

Talking to friends

献血したことある？
記念品何だった？
全然痛くなかったよ。
また行こうと思ってる。

Reading a poster

血液が不足しています。
皆様の善意をお願いします。
400ml献血急募。
成分献血受付中。

On social media

#献血
#ラブラッド
#社会貢献
#お菓子いっぱい

Conversation Starters

"最近、献血に行ったことがありますか？ (Have you been to donate blood recently?)"

"あなたの血液型は何型ですか？ (What is your blood type?)"

"献血ルームのサービスについてどう思いますか？ (What do you think about the services in donation rooms?)"

"初めて献血した時のことを覚えていますか？ (Do you remember the first time you donated blood?)"

"献血を増やすにはどうすればいいと思いますか？ (What do you think should be done to increase blood donations?)"

Journal Prompts

今日初めて献血をしました。その時の気持ちを書いてください。 (I donated blood for the first time today. Write about how you felt.)

献血が社会にとってなぜ重要なのか、あなたの考えを述べてください。 (State your thoughts on why blood donation is important for society.)

献血ルームでの体験を詳しく描写してください。 (Describe your experience at a blood donation room in detail.)

献血を躊躇している友人に、アドバイスをする手紙を書いてください。 (Write a letter giving advice to a friend who is hesitating to donate blood.)

日本の献血文化と、あなたの国の献血文化を比較してください。 (Compare the blood donation culture in Japan with that of your own country.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

いいえ、日本では献血は完全な無償ボランティアです。お金をもらうことはできませんが、飲み物やお菓子、小さな記念品がもらえます。

タトゥーを入れた後は、感染症のリスクを避けるため、一定期間（通常は6ヶ月から1年）は献血することができません。

全血献血なら受付から終了まで約40分〜1時間、成分献血なら1時間半〜2時間程度かかります。

献血した当日は激しい運動や飲酒、長時間の入浴は控えてください。気分が悪くなる可能性があります。

はい、大丈夫です。献血の際に検査してくれるので、後で自分の血液型を知ることができます。

薬の種類によります。ビタミン剤などは大丈夫ですが、抗生物質などは一定期間あける必要があります。医師に相談してください。

日本では、全血献血は16歳（男性）または17歳（女性）から、成分献血は18歳から69歳まで可能です。

一時的に体重は減りますが、水分を摂ればすぐに戻ります。ダイエット効果はありません。

はい、できます。ただし、日本語での問診に答えられることや、滞在期間などの条件があります。

誰かの命を救えるだけでなく、血液検査の結果が送られてくるので、自分の健康状態をチェックできるメリットがあります。