A1 adjective #1,500 most common 5 min read

げんき

Genki means feeling healthy and full of energy.

genki

Explanation at your level:

Hello! Genki (元気) is a Japanese word that means you feel good and have lots of energy! Imagine you just woke up and feel super happy and ready to play. That feeling is genki! When someone asks 'Genki desu ka?', they want to know if you are feeling well. You can say 'Hai, genki!' which means 'Yes, I'm good!'. It's like saying 'I'm okay!' or 'I feel great!' in English. So, genki is all about feeling healthy and happy!

Genki (元気) is a Japanese adjective that describes a state of being well and full of energy. It's commonly used in daily conversation. When you ask someone 'O genki desu ka?' (お元気ですか?), you're politely asking about their health and well-being, similar to 'How are you?' in English. A typical positive response is 'Hai, genki desu' (はい、元気です), meaning 'Yes, I am well.' You can also use it to describe someone else: 'Tanaka-san wa genki desu' (田中さんは元気です) - 'Mr./Ms. Tanaka is well.' It conveys a sense of vitality and good spirits.

Genki (元気) is a fundamental Japanese adjective signifying good health, vitality, and a cheerful disposition. It's frequently employed in everyday interactions. The standard polite inquiry about someone's well-being is 'O genki desu ka?' (お元気ですか?), which translates to 'How are you?' or 'Are you doing well?'. A common affirmative reply is 'Hai, genki desu' (はい、元気です), indicating that one is feeling fine. Conversely, if someone is not feeling well, they might say 'Genki ga arimasen' (元気 がありません) or simply 'Genki ja nai desu' (元気じゃないです). The phrase 'Genki dashite!' (元気出して!) is an encouraging way to tell someone to 'Cheer up!'

The Japanese adjective genki (元気) denotes a robust state of physical and mental well-being, often implying cheerfulness and vigor. Its usage extends beyond simple greetings. For instance, 'Genki na kodomo' (元気な子供) describes an energetic child. In business contexts, a 'genki na kaisha' (元気な会社) refers to a thriving, prosperous company. The phrase 'Genki ga nai' (元気がない) signifies a lack of energy or enthusiasm, often used when someone appears downcast. Understanding the nuances of genki allows for more natural communication, reflecting not just the absence of illness but a positive state of vitality.

Genki (元気) encapsulates more than just health; it embodies a dynamic state of vitality, spirit, and positive energy. While 'O genki desu ka?' is the standard polite inquiry, the response can vary subtly. 'Genki desu' implies a solid, baseline well-being. In contrast, phrases like 'Genki ippai' (元気いっぱい) suggest an overflowing abundance of energy, often used for children or highly enthusiastic individuals. The term can also be applied metaphorically. A 'genki na hanashi' (元気な話) might be a lively or uplifting story. Its opposite, 'genki ga nai', can describe not only a person's mood but also a situation lacking dynamism or spirit, such as a 'genki no nai machi' (元気のない町) - a town lacking vibrancy.

The semantic field of genki (元気) is remarkably rich, extending from the basic physiological state of health to a profound sense of existential vitality and spirited engagement with the world. Etymologically linked to the 'source of vital energy' (元 'origin' + 氣 'spirit/energy'), its usage reflects a deep cultural appreciation for life force. While 'Genki desu' serves as a ubiquitous affirmation of well-being, its absence, 'genki ga nai', can denote not merely malaise but a spiritual or psychological depletion. Metaphorically, genki can signify the 'spirit' or 'character' of something; a 'genki no ii' (元気の良い) salesperson, for example, is not just healthy but possesses a lively, engaging demeanor. The term’s application to abstract entities, like a 'genki na keizai' (元気な経済 - a robust economy), highlights its capacity to represent flourishing and dynamism across various domains, reflecting a holistic view of well-being.

Word in 30 Seconds

  • Genki (元気) means healthy, energetic, and lively.
  • Used in greetings: 'O genki desu ka?' (How are you?).
  • Can describe people, animals, and even companies.
  • Implies a positive state of vitality and good spirits.

Hey there! Let's dive into the awesome Japanese word げんき (genki). It's a super useful word that basically means feeling healthy, energetic, and in good spirits. Think of it as your body and mind saying, 'I'm ready to go!' It's not just about not being sick; it's about feeling vibrant and alive. You'll hear it a lot in everyday conversations, especially when people are checking in on each other.

When someone asks 'Genki desu ka?' (元気ですか?), they're asking 'Are you well?' or 'How are you feeling?'. And if you're feeling great, you can reply with 'Hai, genki desu!' (はい、元気です!), meaning 'Yes, I'm fine/well!'. It's a positive word that reflects a state of overall well-being, encompassing both physical health and a cheerful disposition. So, next time you want to express feeling full of life, genki is your go-to word!

The word genki (元気) has its roots deep in the Japanese language, stemming from older Chinese characters. The kanji 元 (gen) originally meant 'origin' or 'source,' while 氣 (ki) signifies 'spirit,' 'energy,' or 'life force.' So, literally, genki points to the 'source of energy' or the 'origin of vitality.' This etymology beautifully captures the essence of the word – a fundamental, inherent state of being alive and well.

Historically, the concept of ki (or qi in Chinese) has been central to East Asian philosophies, representing the vital energy that flows through all living things. The combination genki thus implies a state where this vital energy is strong and flowing freely, leading to health and vigor. Over centuries, its usage evolved from a more philosophical concept to a common, everyday expression for well-being. It’s fascinating how a word can carry such a rich history, connecting modern usage to ancient ideas about life force and health!

Genki is incredibly versatile! You'll most commonly hear it in greetings and check-ins. The classic question is 'O genki desu ka?' (お元気ですか?), a polite way to ask 'How are you?' or 'Are you well?'. The answer is often 'Hai, genki desu' (はい、元気です) if you're feeling good, or 'Maa maa desu' (まあまあです) for 'so-so'. You can also use it to describe someone's state: 'Kare wa genki desu' (彼は元気です) - 'He is well'.

Beyond simple greetings, genki can describe a lively atmosphere or a robust condition. For instance, a business might be described as 'genki na kaisha' (元気な会社) - 'a thriving company'. You can also use it to encourage someone: 'Genki dashite!' (元気出して!) means 'Cheer up!'. It's generally used in informal to neutral contexts, but the polite form 'O genki desu ka?' is perfectly acceptable in more formal settings too. Remember, it's primarily used for people, animals, or things that have a living, energetic quality.

While genki itself is straightforward, it pops up in several common and expressive phrases. These little nuggets add color to your Japanese!

  • Genki o dasu (元気 を出す): This means 'to cheer up' or 'to pull yourself together'. It's used when someone is feeling down. Example: 'Shiken ni ochita kedo, genki o dashite ganbarou.' (試験に落ちたけど、元気を出して頑張ろう。) - 'I failed the exam, but let's cheer up and try hard.'
  • Genki ga nai (元気がない): This is the opposite, meaning 'to have no energy' or 'to be listless/unwell'. Example: 'Kyou wa naze ka genki ga nai.' (今日はなぜか元気がない。) - 'For some reason, I don't have any energy today.'
  • Genki de iru (元気でいる): This means 'to be keeping well' or 'to be in good health'. It's often used when talking about someone you haven't seen in a while. Example: 'Hisashiburi! Genki de imashita ka?' (久しぶり!元気でいましたか?) - 'Long time no see! Have you been well?'
  • Genki ni naru (元気 になる): This means 'to become well' or 'to recover'. It's used when someone is getting better after being sick. Example: 'Kusuri o nonde, genki ni narimashita.' (薬を飲んで、元気になりました。) - 'I took medicine and I've recovered.'
  • Genki ippai (元気いっぱい): This describes someone who is overflowing with energy and enthusiasm. Example: 'Kodomo-tachi wa genki ippai ni asonde iru.' (子供たちは元気いっぱいに遊んでいる。) - 'The children are playing full of energy.'

Genki is primarily used as a na-adjective in Japanese. This means it can function like an adjective, but it often needs a particle (like 'na') when modifying a noun directly. For example, 'genki na hito' (元気な人) means 'a healthy/energetic person'. When used predicatively (at the end of a sentence), it usually takes 'desu' (polite) or 'da' (casual): 'Watashi wa genki desu' (私は元気です) - 'I am well'.

Pronunciation is fairly straightforward. The 'ge' sound is like the 'ge' in 'get', the 'n' is a standard nasal sound, and 'ki' rhymes with 'key'. So, it's pronounced roughly as 'gen-kee'. In Japanese, syllables are generally given equal stress, so there isn't a strong stress pattern like in English. Think of it as a smooth flow: ge-n-ki. There are no plural forms for genki as it describes a state, not a countable quantity. It's also generally used without articles (like 'a' or 'the') as Japanese grammar doesn't use them in the same way English does.

Fun Fact

The character '氣' (ki) is central to many East Asian philosophies and martial arts, representing the vital life force that flows through everything.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈɡɛŋki/

Sounds like 'GEN-kee', with equal stress on both syllables. The 'g' is hard like in 'get'.

US /ˈɡɛŋki/

Similar to UK pronunciation, 'GEN-kee', with a clear 'g' sound.

Common Errors

  • Pronouncing 'ge' like 'je' (as in 'jealous').
  • Putting too much stress on the second syllable.
  • Mispronouncing the 'n' sound.

Rhymes With

henki penki zenki

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize, common word.

Writing 2/5

Straightforward to write.

Speaking 2/5

Very common in spoken Japanese.

Listening 2/5

Frequently heard in daily conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

desu hai iie anata watashi

Learn Next

kenkou ureshii tanoshii byouki

Advanced

katsuryoku seishin ikigai

Grammar to Know

Na-Adjectives

Genki + na + Noun (e.g., Genki na hito)

Polite Speech (Desu/Masu)

O genki desu ka? / Genki desu.

Asking Questions

Adding 'ka' at the end of a statement (Genki desu -> Genki desu ka?)

Examples by Level

1

Genki desu.

Well am.

Basic sentence structure.

2

Are you genki?

You well?

Using Japanese word in English.

3

I am genki!

I well!

Simple statement.

4

Genki?

Well?

Casual question.

5

He is genki.

He well.

Describing a third person.

6

She is not genki.

She not well.

Negative statement.

7

Let's be genki!

Let's be well!

Encouragement.

8

Genki o dashite!

Energy put out!

Common phrase for cheering up.

1

O genki desu ka?

You well are?

Standard polite question.

2

Hai, genki desu. Anata wa?

Yes, well am. You are?

Answering and asking back.

3

My sister is very genki.

My sister very well.

Using 'very' with genki.

4

I don't feel genki today.

I feel not well today.

Expressing negative feeling.

5

Is the baby genki?

Baby well?

Asking about a child's health.

6

He looks genki.

He looks well.

Observing someone's appearance.

7

Genki o dashite, ganbarimashou.

Energy put out, let's do our best.

Encouraging phrase.

8

The dog is always genki.

The dog always well.

Describing an animal's disposition.

1

Konnichiwa, O genki desu ka?

Hello, you well are?

Common polite greeting.

2

Iie, genki ja arimasen. Kaze o hiita mitai desu.

No, well not am. Cold caught seems.

Expressing illness politely.

3

She seems quite genki after her vacation.

She seems quite well after her vacation.

Linking genki to recovery.

4

Genki ga nai yousu desu ne. Daijoubu desu ka?

Energy lacking appearance is, isn't it. Are you okay?

Observing someone's low spirits.

5

This restaurant is always full of genki customers.

This restaurant always full of energetic customers.

Describing atmosphere.

6

He's a genki old man, always gardening.

He's an energetic old man, always gardening.

Describing an active elderly person.

7

Genki ni naru made, yukkuri yasundekudasai.

Energetic become until, slowly please rest.

Advice for recovery.

8

Let's try to be genki and positive!

Let's try to be energetic and positive!

Motivational statement.

1

Hisashiburi desu ne! O genki de irasshaimashita ka?

Long time no see! Well have you been?

Formal/polite way to ask about someone's well-being over time.

2

Despite his illness, he maintained a genki attitude.

Despite his illness, he maintained a healthy/positive attitude.

Using 'genki' for attitude.

3

The company's recent performance indicates a genki recovery.

The company's recent performance indicates a strong recovery.

Metaphorical use for business.

4

She's always so genki, it's infectious!

She's always so energetic, it's infectious!

Describing someone's energetic personality.

5

He seems to have lost his genki lately.

He seems to have lost his energy/spirit lately.

Implying a loss of vitality or spirit.

6

The children were playing genki ippai in the park.

The children were playing full of energy in the park.

Expressing extreme energy.

7

We need to inject some genki into this project.

We need to inject some energy/vitality into this project.

Figurative use for revitalization.

8

Don't worry too much; genki o dasu koto ga daiji desu.

Don't worry too much; cheering up is important.

Emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset.

1

Though physically frail, her spirit remained remarkably genki.

Though physically frail, her spirit remained remarkably vibrant.

Contrasting physical state with inner vitality.

2

The market showed signs of genki growth after the recession.

The market showed signs of vigorous growth after the recession.

Economic context for 'vigorous growth'.

3

His genki demeanor often masks a deeper melancholy.

His energetic demeanor often masks a deeper melancholy.

Using 'genki' to describe outward appearance vs. inner feelings.

4

We must foster a more genki and innovative work environment.

We must foster a more vibrant and innovative work environment.

Applying 'genki' to organizational culture.

5

The sudden decline in sales suggests the company is losing its genki.

The sudden decline in sales suggests the company is losing its vitality/momentum.

Diagnosing business health metaphorically.

6

Her genki laugh echoed through the hall.

Her vibrant laugh echoed through the hall.

Describing the quality of a sound.

7

After the long journey, he was glad to be genki again.

After the long journey, he was glad to be well/restored again.

Sense of restoration and well-being.

8

The festival was a display of genki and community spirit.

The festival was a display of vitality and community spirit.

Describing collective energy and spirit.

1

The artist's later works, though technically brilliant, lacked the raw genki of his earlier period.

The artist's later works, though technically brilliant, lacked the raw vitality of his earlier period.

Distinguishing technical skill from inherent vitality.

2

In traditional Chinese medicine, 'qi' (氣), akin to Japanese 'ki', is the vital life force; maintaining its smooth flow is essential for genki.

In traditional Chinese medicine, 'qi', akin to Japanese 'ki', is the vital life force; maintaining its smooth flow is essential for well-being/vitality.

Connecting to etymological roots and philosophical concepts.

3

The nation's genki was palpable in the post-war reconstruction efforts.

The nation's vitality/spirit was palpable in the post-war reconstruction efforts.

Applying 'genki' to collective national spirit.

4

His philosophical inquiry sought the ultimate source of genki, the fundamental wellspring of existence.

His philosophical inquiry sought the ultimate source of vitality, the fundamental wellspring of existence.

Philosophical interpretation of 'genki' as fundamental life force.

5

The subtle shift from 'genki' to 'byouki' (illness) is often marked by a loss of this inherent energetic quality.

The subtle shift from 'well-being' to 'illness' is often marked by a loss of this inherent energetic quality.

Linguistic and conceptual boundary between health and illness.

6

A truly genki society is one that balances individual dynamism with communal cohesion.

A truly vibrant society is one that balances individual dynamism with communal cohesion.

Sociopolitical application of 'genki'.

7

The novel's protagonist, initially listless, undergoes a profound transformation, regaining his lost genki.

The novel's protagonist, initially listless, undergoes a profound transformation, regaining his lost vitality/spirit.

Literary use depicting character development.

8

Understanding 'ki' is crucial to grasping the full cultural resonance of 'genki'.

Understanding 'ki' is crucial to grasping the full cultural resonance of 'genki'.

Highlighting cultural depth and interconnectedness of concepts.

Common Collocations

O genki desu ka?
Hai, genki desu.
Genki ga nai
Genki o dasu
Genki na
Genki ni naru
Genki ippai
Genki de iru
Genki na seishin
Genki na kaisha

Idioms & Expressions

"Genki o dasu"

To cheer up; to muster energy.

Shiken ni ochita kedo, genki o dashite tsugi ni ikou.

casual/neutral

"Genki ga nai"

To lack energy; to be down or listless.

Kare wa kinou kara genki ga nai.

neutral

"Genki de iru"

To be keeping well; to be in good health.

O-bou ni awazu, genki de iru to kiite anshin shimashita.

neutral/polite

"Genki ni naru"

To become well; to recover (from illness).

Fugu o tabete, genki ni narimashita.

neutral

"Genki ippai"

Full of energy; brimming with vitality.

Kodomo-tachi wa genki ippai ni asonde ita.

neutral

"Genki mono"

An energetic person; someone full of life.

S he's a real 'genki mono', always up for anything.

casual

Easily Confused

げんき vs 健康 (kenkou)

Both relate to health.

'Kenkou' specifically means 'health' as a noun or adjective, focusing purely on the physical state. 'Genki' implies health PLUS energy, vitality, and good spirits.

私は健康です。(Watashi wa kenkou desu.) - I am healthy. vs 私は元気です。(Watashi wa genki desu.) - I am well/energetic.

げんき vs 元気 (genki) vs. 楽しい (tanoshii)

Both can describe positive states.

'Genki' is about being well and energetic. 'Tanoshii' means fun or enjoyable, relating to an experience or activity.

パーティーは楽しかったです。(Paatii wa tanoshikatta desu.) - The party was fun. (Describes the event). 彼はパーティーで元気でした。(Kare wa paatii de genki deshita.) - He was energetic/lively at the party. (Describes his state).

げんき vs 元気 (genki) vs. 嬉しい (ureshii)

Both are positive feelings.

'Genki' is about physical/mental energy and well-being. 'Ureshii' means happy or glad, focusing on emotion.

プレゼントをもらって嬉しいです。(Purezento o moratte ureshii desu.) - I'm happy to receive the present. 具合が悪かったけど、もう元気です。(Guai ga warukatta kedo, mou genki desu.) - I was sick, but now I'm well.

げんき vs 元気 (genki) vs. 活気 (kakki)

Both relate to energy and liveliness.

'Genki' is typically used for individuals (people, animals) or their state. 'Kakki' often describes the atmosphere or liveliness of a place (like a market or town) or a group's spirit.

この街は活気がある。(Kono machi wa kakki ga aru.) - This town is lively. 子供たちは元気いっぱいだ。(Kodomo-tachi wa genki ippai da.) - The children are full of energy.

Sentence Patterns

A1-C2

O [Noun]-san, o genki desu ka?

Tanaka-san, o genki desu ka?

A1-C2

[Subject] wa genki desu.

Watashi wa genki desu.

A2-C2

Genki na [Noun]

Genki na kodomo wa souzou-ryoku ga takai.

A2-C2

[Subject] wa genki ga nai.

Kare wa kinou kara genki ga nai.

B1-C2

Genki o [Verb]

Genki o dashite ganbarimashou.

Word Family

Nouns

元気 Health, vitality, energy (can also be used as a na-adjective)

Adjectives

元気な (genki na) Healthy, energetic, lively (na-adjective form)

Related

健康 (kenkou) Synonym, specifically 'health'.
活力 (katsuryoku) Related concept, 'vitality' or 'energy'.
気 (ki) Component of the word, meaning 'spirit' or 'energy'.

How to Use It

Formality Scale

O genki desu ka? (polite) Genki desu ka? (neutral) Genki? (casual) Genki dashite! (encouraging, can be casual or neutral)

Common Mistakes

Using 'genki' for inanimate objects. Use 'genki' for people, animals, or sometimes companies/organizations that show vitality.
'Genki' implies a life force or spirit, which inanimate objects lack.
Confusing 'genki' with 'kawaii' (cute). 'Genki' is about health and energy; 'kawaii' is about being cute or adorable.
While an energetic child might also be cute, the words describe different qualities.
Forgetting the 'na' when modifying a noun. Use 'genki na' before a noun (e.g., 'genki na hito').
'Genki' is a na-adjective, requiring 'na' when directly preceding a noun.
Using 'genki' to mean 'happy'. While often related, 'genki' primarily means healthy/energetic. 'Ureshii' means happy.
You can be genki but not happy, or happy but not feeling particularly energetic.
Overusing 'O genki desu ka?' in very casual settings. With close friends, a simple 'Genki?' is more natural.
The 'O' and 'desu ka' add politeness, which might feel too formal among very close peers.

Tips

💡

Link to 'Gentle' and 'Kind'

Remember 'Genki' by thinking of someone who is both gentle and kind, and imagine them being full of energy and good health!

💡

Master the Greeting

The phrase 'O genki desu ka?' is your key to unlocking polite conversations. Practice asking and answering it!

🌍

More Than Just 'Okay'

Understand that 'genki' implies a vibrant energy, not just the absence of sickness. It's a positive state of being.

💡

Na-Adjective Rule

Don't forget to add 'na' when 'genki' comes directly before a noun (e.g., 'genki na kodomo').

💡

Keep it Even

Pronounce 'Gen-ki' with equal stress on both syllables, like 'GEN-kee', and make sure the 'g' is hard.

💡

Avoid Inanimate Objects

Remember, 'genki' usually applies to living things or entities with a sense of vitality. Don't describe a chair as 'genki'.

💡

The Power of 'Ki'

The 'ki' in 'genki' connects to the broader concept of 'qi' or 'chi' in East Asian culture, representing fundamental life energy.

💡

Use it Daily

Try to use 'Genki?' with friends or even ask yourself 'Genki?' throughout the day to reinforce the word.

💡

'Genki o dasu' is Your Friend

When someone's feeling down, remember 'Genki o dasu!' (Cheer up!) – it's a very common and useful expression.

💡

Recovery and Vigor

Think of 'genki ni naru' (to recover) and 'genki ippai' (full of energy) for situations involving getting better or being highly active.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'GENTLE' person who is also 'KIND' and full of energy - GEN-KI!

Visual Association

Picture a bright yellow sun radiating energy, and think 'Genki!'

Word Web

Health Energy Well-being Lively Cheerful Spirit Vigor Recovery

Challenge

Try asking 'O genki desu ka?' to yourself in the mirror and answer 'Hai, genki desu!'

Word Origin

Chinese

Original meaning: 元 (yuán) - origin, source; 氣 (qì) - spirit, energy, life force. Combined, it meant 'source of vital energy'.

Cultural Context

Generally a very positive and widely used term. No significant cultural sensitivities.

In English, we might ask 'How are you?' or 'Are you feeling well?', but 'genki' carries a stronger connotation of active energy and spirit, not just the absence of illness.

The anime/manga series 'Digimon Adventure' features a character named 'Koushiro Izumi' whose Digivice often displays 'Genki' status. Many Japanese songs and children's rhymes use 'genki' to express positive feelings and energy.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Meeting someone after a long time

  • Hisashiburi desu! O genki deshita ka?
  • O kawari nai desu ka?
  • Genki de yokatta desu.

Asking about someone who was sick

  • O genki ni narimashita ka?
  • Mou daijoubu desu ka?
  • O tsukare ga deta no de wa nai desu ka?

Encouraging someone

  • Genki o dashite!
  • Ganbatte!
  • Kippu o dasu n da yo!

Describing children or pets

  • Genki ippai asonde imasu.
  • Itsumo genki desu ne!
  • O genki na koneko desu.

Conversation Starters

"O genki desu ka? Kyou wa ii tenki desu ne!"

"Hisashiburi! Genki de yarimasu ka?"

"Saikin, nanika omoshiroi koto arimashita ka? Genki sou desu ne!"

"Kyou wa chotto genki ga nai you desu ne. Daijoubu desu ka?"

"Genki ippai no hito wa suki desu. Anata wa?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time you felt particularly 'genki'. What were you doing?

How do you feel 'genki' today? What contributes to your energy levels?

Write about someone you know who is always 'genki'. What makes them so vibrant?

If you could regain your 'genki' for one specific activity, what would it be and why?

Frequently Asked Questions

8 questions

Not entirely. While it strongly implies physical health, it also covers mental well-being and a general sense of vitality and good spirits. You can feel 'genki' even if you're just feeling mentally sharp and cheerful.

Yes, absolutely! It's very common to ask or say that a pet is 'genki', meaning they are healthy and lively.

'Genki' (元気) relates to health and energy, while 'ureshii' (嬉しい) means happy or glad. You can be 'genki' but not necessarily 'ureshii', and vice versa.

You can say 'Genki ja arimasen' (元気じゃありません - polite) or 'Genki ja nai' (元気じゃない - casual), meaning 'I'm not well'. You can also specify, like 'Kaze desu' (風邪です - I have a cold).

Yes, it can be. Asking 'O genki desu ka?' is polite in business greetings. Also, a company can be described as 'genki na kaisha' (元気な会社) to mean it's doing well or thriving.

The word itself is positive. However, 'Genki ga nai' (元気がない) means 'lacking energy' or 'feeling down', which describes a negative state.

It's less common for plants, but you might hear it metaphorically if a plant is growing very vigorously. Usually, words like 'sodatte iru' (育っている - growing) are preferred.

'Ki' (気) means spirit, energy, or life force. 'Genki' literally means the 'source' (元) of this 'ki', implying fundamental vitality.

Test Yourself

fill blank A1

How do you ask someone if they are well in Japanese?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: O genki desu ka?

'O genki desu ka?' is the standard polite way to ask 'How are you?' or 'Are you well?'.

multiple choice A2

What does 'genki' primarily mean?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Healthy and energetic

'Genki' describes a state of good health and being full of energy.

true false B1

You can use 'genki' to describe a table.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

'Genki' is typically used for living things (people, animals) or things that exhibit vitality, not inanimate objects like tables.

match pairs B1

Word

Meaning

All matched!

These phrases show different ways 'genki' is used to express states of energy and well-being.

sentence order B2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

The correct sentence is 'I am genki desu', meaning 'I am well'.

fill blank A1

If someone asks 'O genki desu ka?' and you are feeling well, you can reply: '______ desu.'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Hai, genki

'Hai, genki desu' is the standard positive response.

multiple choice B1

Which phrase means 'Cheer up!'?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: Genki o dasu

'Genki o dasu' is the idiom used to encourage someone to feel better or more energetic.

true false B2

'Genki na kaisha' means a company that is financially struggling.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: False

'Genki na kaisha' means a thriving, healthy, or prosperous company.

sentence order B2

Tap words below to build the sentence
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

The sentence means she is well after recovering.

fill blank C1

The child was playing ______ in the park, running and laughing loudly.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: genki ippai

'Genki ippai' means full of energy, fitting the description of the child's play.

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