冷え性 in 30 Seconds
- A condition of being overly sensitive to cold.
- Often caused by poor blood circulation.
- Leads to cold hands and feet.
- Commonly discussed in Japan regarding health and comfort.
- Definition
- '冷え性' (hiēshō) is a Japanese noun that describes a condition of being particularly sensitive to the cold, often characterized by poor circulation, leading to cold hands and feet even in mild temperatures.
- Usage
- This term is commonly used in everyday conversations, especially during colder seasons or when discussing health and physical conditions. It's a familiar concept for many Japanese people, and expressing that one has '冷え性' is a way to explain why their extremities might feel cold or why they prefer warmer environments. It can be used to explain why someone is wearing extra layers of clothing, avoiding cold drinks, or seeking out warm places. It's also a term you might hear when discussing health concerns with doctors or when reading health-related articles. The term implies a general predisposition rather than a specific illness, though it can sometimes be linked to underlying health issues like anemia or thyroid problems. People might use it to politely decline activities that involve prolonged exposure to cold, such as outdoor winter sports without adequate preparation, or to explain their need for comfort items like heated blankets or warm socks. It's a descriptive term that helps people understand certain physical tendencies and needs. The feeling associated with '冷え性' can range from mild discomfort to significant pain in the extremities, and the condition is often exacerbated by stress, fatigue, or hormonal changes. Therefore, it's a multifaceted term that encapsulates a common physical experience and its implications on daily life and choices. The word itself is formed from '冷える' (hie-ru), meaning 'to become cold,' and '性' (shō), meaning 'nature' or 'tendency,' directly translating to a 'cold tendency' or 'cold nature.' This etymology clearly conveys the meaning of the word. It's a word that resonates with many, as experiencing coldness in hands and feet is a widespread phenomenon, particularly in countries with distinct seasons like Japan. The cultural understanding of '冷え性' also extends to dietary advice, with traditional Japanese medicine often suggesting certain foods to combat it, such as ginger, cinnamon, and warm broths. The awareness of '冷え性' also plays a role in fashion choices, with many brands offering specialized warm undergarments and accessories designed to help individuals with this condition stay comfortable. It's a term that bridges the gap between personal physical sensation and a recognized condition, making it a useful and relatable part of the Japanese lexicon. The prevalence of this term highlights the Japanese cultural emphasis on physical well-being and the acknowledgment of individual bodily differences. It's not uncommon for people to ask each other if they suffer from '冷え性' when discussing winter preparations or comfort levels. This open discussion about such physical conditions is a testament to its widespread recognition and acceptance within society. The term also appears in discussions about circulation-enhancing products and treatments, further solidifying its place in both everyday language and the health and wellness industry. It’s a concept that many people can relate to, making it a frequently used and understood term.
Japanese people often talk about the weather and how it affects their bodies. For example, someone might say, 「冬になると、私の冷え性がひどくなるんです。」 (Fuyu ni naru to, watashi no hiēshō ga hidoku naru n desu.) This means, "When winter comes, my sensitivity to cold gets worse."
- Etymology
- The word is a compound of '冷える' (hie-ru), meaning 'to become cold', and '性' (shō), meaning 'nature', 'disposition', or 'tendency'. Thus, it literally translates to 'cold tendency' or 'cold nature', accurately describing the condition of being sensitive to cold.
- Related Concepts
- It is often associated with poor blood circulation (血行不良 - kekkō furyō) and can be a symptom of conditions like anemia (貧血 - hinketsu) or hypotension (低血圧 - teiketsuatsu). In traditional Japanese medicine (漢方 - Kampō), it's understood as an imbalance in the body's energy (気 - ki) and blood (血 - ketsu).
Here's a common scenario: 「すみません、この部屋は少し寒いのですが、冷え性なので、暖房を強くしてもらえませんか？」 (Sumimasen, kono heya wa sukoshi samui no desu ga, hiēshō na node, danbō o tsuyoku shite moraemasen ka?) This translates to, "Excuse me, this room is a bit cold. I have poor circulation, so could you please turn up the heating?"
- Expressing Personal Condition
- The most direct way to use '冷え性' is to state that you have it. This is often done using the pattern 「～は冷え性です」 (～ wa hiēshō desu) or 「冷え性があります」 (hiēshō ga arimasu).
- Explaining Behavior
- '冷え性' is frequently used to explain actions or preferences related to temperature. The conjunction 「～ので」 (node - because) or 「～から」 (kara - because) is commonly used to link the condition to the behavior.
- Discussing Symptoms
- People might describe the specific symptoms they experience due to '冷え性', such as cold hands and feet.
- Seeking Solutions
- When discussing health or seeking advice, '冷え性' can be mentioned as the reason for looking for remedies or treatments.
- In Casual Conversation
- It's a common topic when talking about personal comfort, especially during seasonal changes.
Example sentence: 「私は冷え性なので、夏でも冷たい飲み物はあまり飲みません。」 (Watashi wa hiēshō na node, natsu demo tsumetai nomimono wa amari nomimasen.) Translation: "Because I'm sensitive to cold, I don't drink many cold beverages, even in the summer."
- Sentence Construction
- You can use '冷え性' as a noun directly: 「冷え性はつらいです。」 (Hiēshō wa tsurai desu.) - "Being sensitive to cold is tough." Or, as an adjective phrase: 「冷え性な体質」 (hiēshō na taishitsu) - "A constitution prone to coldness."
- Connecting to Causes/Effects
- Using particles like 「で」 (de) or 「でして」 (deshite - more polite) to connect it to a reason: 「冷え性でして、冬は特に手足が冷たくなります。」 (Hiēshō deshite, fuyu wa tokuni teashi ga tsumetaku narimasu.) - "I have poor circulation, and my hands and feet get particularly cold in winter."
When asking for something related to warmth: 「冷え性なので、ブランケットを借りてもいいですか？」 (Hiēshō na node, buranketto o karite mo ii desu ka?) Translation: "I'm sensitive to cold, so may I borrow a blanket?"
- Everyday Conversations
- This is perhaps the most common place to encounter '冷え性'. Friends, family, and colleagues might discuss their personal comfort levels, especially during winter. For instance, during a conversation about outdoor activities, someone might say, 「私は冷え性だから、寒いところは苦手なんだ。」 (Watashi wa hiēshō da kara, samui tokoro wa nigate nan da.) which means, "I'm sensitive to cold, so I'm not good with cold places." This is a very natural way to explain a preference or a limitation.
- At the Doctor's Office
- When visiting a doctor, especially for general health check-ups or complaints related to circulation or feeling unwell, '冷え性' is often brought up. A patient might say, 「最近、手足の冷え性がひどくて…」 (Saikin, teashi no hiēshō ga hidokute...) meaning "Lately, my cold hands and feet have gotten worse..." This helps the doctor understand potential underlying issues or symptoms.
- Health and Wellness Media
- Magazines, websites, and TV shows focusing on health, beauty, and lifestyle frequently discuss '冷え性'. Articles might offer tips on how to combat it through diet, exercise, or supplements. You might see headlines like 「冷え性を改善する温活レシピ」 (Hiēshō o kaizen suru onkatsu reshipi) - "Warmth-promoting recipes to improve sensitivity to cold."
- In Retail Environments
- When shopping for clothing, particularly thermal wear, or health products like warming patches or circulation-boosting drinks, '冷え性' might be mentioned in product descriptions or by sales assistants. For example, a product might be advertised as 「冷え性の方におすすめ」 (Hiēshō no kata ni osusume) - "Recommended for those with poor circulation."
- Traditional Medicine (Kampō)
- In discussions about traditional Japanese medicine, '冷え性' is often categorized as a symptom of imbalances in the body's energy (気 - ki) or blood (血 - ketsu). Practitioners might use the term to diagnose and explain treatment approaches.
A common dialogue you might overhear in a cafe during winter: Person A: 「わあ、外は本当に寒いね！指先が冷たいよ。」 (Waa, soto wa hontō ni samui ne! Yubisaki ga tsumetai yo.) Person B: 「本当だね。私は冷え性だから、冬はこれが辛いんだ。」 (Hontō da ne. Watashi wa hiēshō da kara, fuyu wa kore ga tsurai n da.) Translation: A: "Wow, it's really cold outside! My fingertips are freezing." B: "It really is. I have poor circulation, so this is tough for me in winter."
- Confusing with General Coldness
- A common mistake is to use '冷え性' simply to mean 'feeling cold' in a general sense. While it's related, '冷え性' specifically refers to a *tendency* or *condition* of being overly sensitive to cold, often due to poor circulation, rather than just experiencing temporary coldness due to the environment. For example, saying 「今日は冷え性だ」 (Kyō wa hiēshō da) to mean "I feel cold today" is not entirely accurate. A better phrasing would be 「今日は寒い」 (Kyō wa samui) or 「体が冷える」 (karada ga hie-ru).
- Overusing it as a Medical Diagnosis
- Learners might mistakenly use '冷え性' as a definitive medical diagnosis. While it's a recognized condition, it's often a symptom or a general descriptor rather than a specific illness that a doctor would formally diagnose without further investigation. It's more of a self-reported or commonly understood physical trait. For instance, saying 「私は冷え性という病気です」 (Watashi wa hiēshō to iu byōki desu) - "I have a disease called 'hiēshō'" might sound overly serious or incorrect. It's better to say 「冷え性なんです」 (hiēshō nan desu) - "I have poor circulation."
- Incorrect Grammatical Usage
- Misplacing the word or using incorrect particles can lead to confusion. For example, trying to use it as a verb directly is incorrect. '冷える' (hie-ru) is the verb for 'to become cold'. '冷え性' is a noun. So, saying 「私は冷え性する」 (hiēshō suru) is grammatically wrong. The correct way to express having the condition is 「冷え性です」 (hiēshō desu) or 「冷え性がある」 (hiēshō ga aru).
- Ignoring Nuance of Circulation
- '冷え性' is intrinsically linked to poor circulation. If someone uses the term without implying this connection, it might sound incomplete or slightly off. For instance, if someone says they have '冷え性' but then talks about having a fever, it doesn't quite fit the typical understanding. It's important to remember that the underlying reason is often related to blood flow. A more accurate statement connecting it to circulation would be 「冷え性で血行が悪いです」 (Hiēshō de kekkō ga warui desu) - "I have poor circulation due to my sensitivity to cold."
- Using it for Temporary Discomfort
- Similar to the first point, learners might use '冷え性' to describe any instance of feeling cold, even if it's just for a short period due to external factors. For example, after walking outside in the cold for a few minutes, saying 「あ、冷え性になっちゃった！」 (A, hiēshō ni nacchatta!) - "Oh, I've become sensitive to cold!" is an overstatement. It's more likely just temporary coldness. The condition implies a chronic or recurring sensitivity.
Incorrect: 「私は冷え性する。」 (Watashi wa hiēshō suru.) - This is grammatically wrong as '冷え性' is a noun, not a verb.
Correct: 「私は冷え性です。」 (Watashi wa hiēshō desu.) - "I have poor circulation."
- 冷える (hie-ru)
- '冷える' is the verb meaning 'to become cold' or 'to get cold'. While related, it's the action or state of becoming cold, whereas '冷え性' is the noun describing the *tendency* to be sensitive to cold. You can say 「手が冷える」 (Te ga hie-ru) - "My hands are getting cold." But if this is a constant issue, you'd say 「冷え性なので手が冷えます」 (Hiēshō na node te ga hie-masu) - "Because I have poor circulation, my hands get cold."
- 寒がり (samugari)
- '寒がり' is a noun or a na-adjective meaning someone who is 'sensitive to cold' or 'easily feels cold'. It's very similar to '冷え性' and often used interchangeably in casual conversation. However, '冷え性' specifically implies poor circulation as a contributing factor, making it slightly more medical or physiological in nuance. '寒がり' is a broader term for someone who just feels cold easily. Example: 「彼は寒がりだから、冬はいつも厚着をしている。」 (Kare wa samugari da kara, fuyu wa itsumo atsugi o shite iru.) - "He's sensitive to cold, so he always wears thick clothes in winter."
- 血行不良 (kekkō furyō)
- This phrase means 'poor circulation'. '冷え性' is often a symptom or a consequence of '血行不良'. So, while '冷え性' describes the *feeling* of being cold, '血行不良' describes the underlying *physical cause*. You might hear: 「冷え性は血行不良が原因で起こることが多い。」 (Hiēshō wa kekkō furyō ga gen'in de okoru koto ga ōi.) - "Sensitivity to cold often occurs due to poor circulation."
- 手足の冷たさ (teashi no tsumetasa)
- This literally means 'coldness of hands and feet'. It's a descriptive phrase for a common symptom of '冷え性'. Instead of saying 「私は冷え性です」, one might describe the symptom directly: 「私の手足はいつも冷たいです。」 (Watashi no teashi wa itsumo tsumetai desu.) - "My hands and feet are always cold." This is a more direct description of the physical sensation.
- 体温が低い (taion ga hikui)
- This means 'low body temperature'. While someone with '冷え性' might have a slightly lower than average body temperature, it's not the primary definition. '冷え性' is more about the *perception* and *sensation* of cold, especially in extremities, often linked to circulation, rather than a universally low core body temperature. However, in some contexts, it can be a related issue.
Comparison:
「冷え性」 (Hiēshō): A condition of being sensitive to cold, often due to poor circulation.
「寒がり」 (Samugari): Someone who is easily cold; a general sensitivity to cold.
「血行不良」 (Kekkō furyō): Poor blood circulation (the potential cause).
How Formal Is It?
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Fun Fact
The kanji '性' (shō) in '冷え性' is the same character used in words like '男性' (dansei - male) and '女性' (josei - female), indicating a 'nature' or 'gender'. Here, it signifies a characteristic or inherent tendency of a person's body.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'shō' too short, making it sound like 'sho' instead of 'shoh'.
- Not elongating the 'o' sound in 'shō'.
- Confusing the vowel sounds, especially in the 'e' sound.
- Adding an unnecessary 'u' sound after 'shō'.
- Misplacing the stress, perhaps putting it on 'hi'.
Difficulty Rating
CEFR B1 level. The word itself is common and its meaning is generally understood. However, understanding its nuances, common collocations, and related medical or traditional concepts might require B2 or higher.
CEFR B1 level. Learners can use it in simple sentences to describe their condition or explain their behavior. Constructing more complex sentences involving its causes or effects might be challenging.
CEFR B1 level. Easy to use in conversational contexts to explain why one feels cold or needs warmth. Fluency in discussing its implications might require higher proficiency.
CEFR B1 level. The word is frequently used in everyday speech, making it likely to be understood when spoken in context. Differentiating it from similar terms might require careful listening.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using ～ので (node) or ～から (kara) to express reason.
冷え性なので、夏でも温かい飲みものを飲んでいます。
Using ～体質 (taishitsu) to describe one's constitution.
私は冷え性の体質です。
Using ～と聞きました (~ to kikimashita) or ～と言われています (~ to iwarete imasu) to convey information or common beliefs.
生姜が冷え性に効くと聞きました。
Using ～に注意が必要です (~ ni chūi ga hitsuyō desu) for warnings or precautions.
冷え性の人は、夏でも冷房に注意が必要です。
Using ～を改善する (~ o kaizen suru) to talk about improvement.
血行を改善する 運動。
Examples by Level
手がかじかむ。
My hands are freezing.
This describes a temporary state of coldness.
寒いですね。
It's cold, isn't it?
A simple statement about the weather.
暖かくしてください。
Please make it warm.
A polite request for warmth.
温かい飲み物が飲みたい。
I want to drink something warm.
Expressing a desire for a warm beverage.
足が冷たい。
My feet are cold.
Describing a physical sensation.
冬は苦手です。
I don't like winter.
Expressing dislike for a season.
毛布が欲しい。
I want a blanket.
Requesting a comfort item.
体が冷える。
My body feels cold.
Describing a general feeling of coldness.
私は冷え性なので、冬は特に辛いです。
I have poor circulation, so winter is especially tough for me.
Using '～なので' (because) to explain a reason.
夏でも冷たい飲み物はあまり飲みません。
I don't drink many cold beverages, even in summer.
Expressing a habit or preference related to temperature.
この部屋は少し寒いですね。暖房をつけてもらえませんか。
This room is a bit cold, isn't it? Could you turn on the heating?
Making a polite request based on feeling cold.
彼女は寒がりなので、いつも厚着をしています。
She is sensitive to cold, so she always wears thick clothes.
Using '寒がり' (sensitive to cold) and explaining the resulting action.
手足の冷たさが気になります。
I'm concerned about the coldness of my hands and feet.
Expressing concern about a specific symptom.
温かい靴下を履いています。
I'm wearing warm socks.
Describing an action taken for warmth.
冬になると体が冷えます。
My body gets cold when winter comes.
Describing a recurring physical state related to a season.
私は生まれつき冷え性みたいです。
It seems I'm sensitive to cold from birth.
Using '～みたいです' (it seems) to express a personal observation.
私の冷え性は血行不良が原因だと医者に言われました。
The doctor told me that my sensitivity to cold is caused by poor circulation.
Using '～が原因で' (caused by) to explain the reason for the condition.
生姜や薬草などを摂ると冷え性が和らぐと聞きました。
I heard that consuming ginger and medicinal herbs can alleviate sensitivity to cold.
Using '～と聞きました' (I heard that) to report information.
価格は少し高いですが、この温熱パッドは冷え性の私には欠かせません。
The price is a bit high, but I can't do without this heat patch, given my sensitivity to cold.
Using '～には欠かせません' (cannot do without) to express indispensability.
漢方では、体の冷えは気や血の巡りが悪いサインだと考えられています。
In Kampo (traditional Japanese medicine), coldness in the body is considered a sign of poor energy or blood circulation.
Using '～だと考えられています' (is considered to be) to state a common belief or theory.
体を温める食を摂るように心がけています。
I am making an effort to eat foods that warm the body.
Using '～ように心がけています' (making an effort to) to describe a conscious action.
冷え性の人は、夏でも冷たい風に当たらないように注意が必要です。
People with poor circulation need to be careful not to be exposed to cold drafts, even in summer.
Using '～に注意が必要です' (caution is necessary) to advise on preventive measures.
この毛の温かい靴は冷え性の私にぴったりです。
These wool shoes are perfect for me, given my sensitivity to cold.
Using '～にぴったりです' (is perfect for) to express suitability.
体の内側から温まるような生がいは気をつけています。
I'm paying attention to consuming foods that warm the body from the inside.
Using '～ような' (like/such as) to give examples of warming foods.
冷え性の症状は個人によって異なるが、一般には手足の痺れや痛みを伴うこともある。
The symptoms of poor circulation vary from person to person, but generally, they can also be accompanied by numbness or pain in the hands and feet.
Using '～によって異なる' (varies by) and '～を伴うこともある' (can sometimes be accompanied by).
最近、市販の温活グッズで冷え性を緩和しようと試みている。
Lately, I've been trying to alleviate my sensitivity to cold with commercially available 'warmth-promoting' goods.
Using '～を緩和しようと試みている' (trying to alleviate) and the concept of '温活' (onkatsu - activities to warm the body).
体の芯から温まるような入浴を心がけ、湯から上がった後も速やかに保温する必要がある。
It's necessary to take baths that warm the body from the core and to quickly warm up after getting out of the bath.
Using '～必要がある' (it is necessary to) and emphasizing '体の芯から温まる' (warm from the core).
冷え性は単なる体質の問題だけでなく、生活の質にも影響を及ぼす。
Sensitivity to cold is not just a matter of constitution; it also affects quality of life.
Using '～だけでなく～も' (not only... but also) and '～に影響を及ぼす' (affects).
医師は、適度な運動とバランスの取れた食事が冷え性の改善に繋がると推奨している。
Doctors recommend that moderate exercise and a balanced diet lead to improvement in sensitivity to cold.
Using '～につながる' (leads to) and '～を推奨している' (is recommending).
血流を良くするために、毎日、足の指の体操を行っている。
To improve blood circulation, I perform toe exercises every day.
Using '～ために' (in order to) and describing a specific action for circulation.
冷え性を抱えると、冬の户外での活動が制限されることがある。
Having poor circulation can sometimes limit outdoor activities in winter.
Using '～を抱える' (to have/carry a problem) and '～が制限されることがある' (can sometimes be limited).
体の内側から温まるような飲みものは、血流を促進すると言われている。
It is said that drinks that warm the body from the inside promote blood circulation.
Using '～と言われている' (it is said that) and '～を促進する' (promote).
冷え性は、単に寒さを感じるだけでなく、自律神経の乱れやホルモンバランスの影響も示唆している。
Sensitivity to cold not only involves feeling cold but also suggests disturbances in the autonomic nervous system and hormonal balance.
Using '～だけでなく～も示唆している' (not only... but also suggests) and more technical terms like '自律神経の乱れ' (autonomic nervous system disturbance).
我々の社会では、冷え性への対処が個々の健康だけでなく、生産性にも影響を与えかねない。
In our society, addressing sensitivity to cold can affect not only individual health but also productivity.
Using '～だけでなく～も与えかねない' (can affect not only... but also) and discussing societal impact.
近年、健康志向の高まりとともに、冷え性に対する関心が再び注目されている。
In recent years, with the rise in health consciousness, interest in sensitivity to cold has once again been gaining attention.
Using '～とともに' (along with) and '～が再び注目されている' (has once again been gaining attention).
体の冷えは、免疫力の低下を招き、様々な疾患のリスクを増大させる。
Body coldness can lead to a decrease in immunity and increase the risk of various illnesses.
Using '～を招き' (lead to) and '～のリスクを増大させる' (increase the risk of).
冷え性の改善には、生活・食事習慣の見直しが不可欠である。
For the improvement of sensitivity to cold, a review of lifestyle and dietary habits is indispensable.
Using '～の見直しが不可欠である' (a review of... is indispensable).
季節の変動に伴う 体温の変化に適応する 能力は個人により大きく 異なる。
The ability to adapt to changes in body temperature accompanying seasonal variations differs greatly among individuals.
Using '～に伴う' (accompanying) and '～により大きく異なる' (differs greatly by).
現代の生活では、冷暖房の発達により、本来の体温調節 機能が低下する 傾向がある。
In modern life, due to the development of air conditioning and heating, there is a tendency for the body's natural thermoregulation function to decline.
Using '～により' (due to) and '～傾向がある' (there is a tendency).
冷え性の改善に寄与する 食品としては、発酵食品や根菜類が挙げられる。
Fermented foods and root vegetables are cited as foods that contribute to the improvement of sensitivity to cold.
Using '～に寄与する' (contribute to) and '～が挙げられる' (are cited/mentioned).
現代の医学では、冷え性を単なる体質と看做すのではなく、全身の恒常性を維持する 生理学的プロセスとの関連で捉える 傾向が強まっている。
Modern medicine tends to view sensitivity to cold not merely as a constitutional trait, but in relation to the physiological processes that maintain the body's homeostasis.
Using '～と看做すのではなく～で捉える傾向が強まっている' (the tendency to view... not as... but as... is strengthening).
環境の温度への曝露に対する感受性は、遺伝的要因と後天的な生活・環境要因が複雑に絡み合って 形成される。
Sensitivity to environmental temperature exposure is formed by a complex interplay of genetic factors and acquired lifestyle and environmental factors.
Using '～への曝露に対する感受性' (sensitivity to exposure to...), '～が複雑に絡み合って形成される' (is formed by a complex interplay of...).
冷え性の症状を軽減させるための介入は、薬理学的アプローチに留まらず、行動・心理的な側面にも配慮が必要である。
Interventions to alleviate the symptoms of sensitivity to cold are necessary not only in pharmacological approaches but also considering behavioral and psychological aspects.
Using '～に留まらず' (not limited to) and '～にも配慮が必要である' (consideration is needed for... as well).
体温調節の不全は、末梢血管の収縮や拡張の応答に異常を来たすことで顕著となる。
Dysregulation of thermoregulation becomes apparent through abnormalities in the constriction and dilation responses of peripheral blood vessels.
Using '～の不全' (dysregulation/insufficiency of), '～の応答に異常を来たすことで顕著となる' (becomes apparent through abnormalities in the response of...).
冷え性の背景にある生理的メカニズムの解明は、個別の治療 戦略の策定に不可欠である。
Elucidating the physiological mechanisms underlying sensitivity to cold is indispensable for formulating individualized treatment strategies.
Using '～の背景にある' (underlying), '～の解明' (elucidation of), and '～の策定に不可欠である' (is indispensable for the formulation of...).
社会 全体として、冷え性に対する理解を深め、共生できる環境を構築する 必要がある。
As a society as a whole, there is a need to deepen understanding of sensitivity to cold and build an environment where we can coexist.
Using '～として' (as a...), '～を深め' (deepen), and '～を構築する必要がある' (there is a need to build...).
個別の体質に応じた アプローチが不可欠であり、画一的な対策では効果が限定される。
An approach tailored to individual constitutions is indispensable, and uniform countermeasures will have limited effectiveness.
Using '～に応じた' (tailored to), '～が不可欠であり' (is indispensable and), and '～では効果が限定される' (effectiveness is limited by...).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— I have poor circulation. (A common, natural way to state the condition.)
「ええ、<ruby>冬<rp>(</rp><rt>ふゆ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>本当<rp>(</rp><rt>ほんとう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>に<ruby>辛<rp>(</rp><rt>つら</rt><rp>)</rp>いんです。<ruby>私<rp>(</rp><rt>わたし</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>、<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>なんです。」 (Ee, fuyu wa hontō ni tsurai n desu. Watashi, hiēshō nan desu.) - "Yes, winter is really tough. I have poor circulation."
— Because I have poor circulation, ~ (Used to explain a consequence or behavior.)
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>なので、<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>たい<ruby>飲<rp>(</rp><rt>の</rt><rp>)</rp>み<rp>(</rp><rt>み</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>ものは<ruby>飲<rp>(</rp><rt>の</rt><rp>)</rp>みません。」 (Hiēshō na node, tsumetai nomimono wa nomimasen.) - "Because I have poor circulation, I don't drink cold beverages."
— Ways to improve sensitivity to cold. (Often used when seeking advice or information.)
「<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>の<ruby>改善<rp>(</rp><rt>かいぜん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby> <ruby>方法<rp>(</rp><rt>ほうほう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>教<rp>(</rp><rt>おし</rt><rp>)</rp>えてください。」 (Hiēshō no kaizen hōhō o oshiete kudasai.) - "Please tell me ways to improve sensitivity to cold."
— I am sensitive to cold and have poor circulation. (Emphasizing both general sensitivity and the circulation issue.)
「<ruby>私<rp>(</rp><rt>わたし</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>寒<rp>(</rp><rt>さむ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby><ruby> தருக<rp>(</rp><rt>がり</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>で<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>です。」 (Watashi wa samugari de hiēshō desu.) - "I am sensitive to cold and have poor circulation."
— 〇〇 is good for sensitivity to cold. (Used to recommend remedies or treatments.)
<ruby>生<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>がいは<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>には<ruby>良<rp>(</rp><rt>よ</rt><rp>)</rp>いと<ruby>言<rp>(</rp><rt>い</rt><rp>)</rp>われています。」 (Shōgai wa hiēshō ni wa yoi to iwarete imasu.) - "Ginger is said to be good for sensitivity to cold."
— To alleviate the symptoms of sensitivity to cold. (Used when discussing relief.)
<ruby>温<rp>(</rp><rt>おん</rt><rp>)</rp>かい<ruby>足<rp>(</rp><rt>あし</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby> <ruby>浴<rp>(</rp><rt>よく</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>症状<rp>(</rp><rt>しょうじょう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>和<rp>(</rp><rt>やわ</rt><rp>)</rp>らげる<rp>(</rp><rt>げる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>のに<ruby>役立<rp>(</rp><rt>やくだ</rt><rp>)</rp>ちます。」 (Onkai ashi-yoku wa shōjō o yawarageru no ni yakudachi masu.) - "Warm foot baths are useful for alleviating symptoms."
— Improving the constitution for sensitivity to cold. (Focuses on long-term improvement.)
<ruby>体質<rp>(</rp><rt>たいしつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby> <ruby>改善<rp>(</rp><rt>かいぜん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>には<ruby>時間<rp>(</rp><rt>じかん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>がかかります。」 (Taishitsu kaizen ni wa jikan ga kakarimasu.) - "Improving one's constitution takes time."
— I am troubled by sensitivity to cold. (Expressing difficulty or distress.)
<ruby>冬<rp>(</rp><rt>ふゆ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>毎年<rp>(</rp><rt>まいとし</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby> <ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>で<ruby>困<rp>(</rp><rt>こま</rt><rp>)</rp>っています。」 (Fuyu wa maitoshi hiēshō de komatte imasu.) - "I am troubled by sensitivity to cold every winter."
— There are many people with sensitivity to cold. (Observing the prevalence.)
<ruby>日本<rp>(</rp><rt>にほん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>では<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>の<ruby>人<rp>(</rp><rt>ひと</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>多<rp>(</rp><rt>おお</rt><rp>)</rp>い。」 (Nihon de wa hiēshō no hito ga ōi.) - "There are many people with sensitivity to cold in Japan."
— Products for dealing with sensitivity to cold. (Referring to commercial items.)
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby> <ruby>対策<rp>(</rp><rt>たいさく</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby> <ruby>グッズ<rp>(</rp><rt>グッズ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>たくさん<rp>(</rp><rt>たくさん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby> <ruby>売<rp>(</rp><rt>う</rt><rp>)</rp>られている。」 (Hiēshō taisaku guzzu ga takusan urarete iru.) - "Many products for dealing with sensitivity to cold are being sold."
Often Confused With
While similar, '寒がり' is a broader term for someone who easily feels cold, whereas '冷え性' specifically implies poor circulation as a contributing factor. '冷え性' is often more persistent and may involve discomfort or pain.
'冷える' is the verb 'to become cold'. '冷え性' is the noun describing the *condition* or *tendency* of being sensitive to cold. You can say your hands 'hie-ru', but you 'have' 'hiēshō'.
'低体温' refers to a clinically low body temperature (hypothermia). While someone with '冷え性' might have a slightly lower temperature, '冷え性' is primarily about the sensation of cold and poor circulation, not necessarily a dangerously low core temperature.
Idioms & Expressions
— Fingers and toes become numb with cold. This is a common symptom associated with '冷え性'.
寒い日には、手足がかじかんで しまう。
General— One's body feels cold. This is a general feeling of coldness, often a symptom experienced by those with '冷え性'.
冷え性の人は、特に体が冷えやすい。
General— Coldness in the extremities. This is a more medical term for the sensation of cold in the hands and feet, a key characteristic of '冷え性'.
末端冷感は冷え性の代表的な症状です。
Medical/Formal— Coldness is the source of all illnesses. This is a traditional saying emphasizing the negative health impact of being cold, which is highly relevant to the concept of '冷え性'.
昔から「冷えは万病の元」と言われる。
Proverbial— Activities to warm the body. This is a modern term for practices aimed at combating coldness, often associated with improving '冷え性'.
最近、温活に励む 人が増えている。
Modern/Lifestyle— Blood circulation is bad. This is a direct description of the underlying issue for '冷え性'.
血の巡りが悪いと、体が冷える。
General/Medical— The body feels cold from the inside out. This describes a deep, pervasive coldness, often experienced by those with severe '冷え性'.
冬の朝は、体が芯から冷える。
Descriptive— Fingertips become numb with cold. This is a very specific and common manifestation of '冷え性'.
外に出ると、指先がかじかんで しまう。
Descriptive— Coldness is the root of all illnesses. (A traditional Japanese saying emphasizing the negative health impact of being cold, highly relevant to '冷え性'.)
昔から「冷えは万病の元」と言われている。
Proverb— Products for warming the body. These are often used by people with '冷え性' to manage their condition.
様々な温活 グッズが販売されている。
Modern/CommercialEasily Confused
Both terms describe sensitivity to cold.
While 'samugari' means someone who gets cold easily, 'hiēshō' specifically refers to poor circulation leading to coldness, especially in the hands and feet. It's a more specific medical or physiological term.
「彼は<ruby>寒<rp>(</rp><rt>さむ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby><ruby>がり<rp>(</rp><rt>がり</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>だから、<ruby>冬<rp>(</rp><rt>ふゆ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>厚着<rp>(</rp><rt>あつぎ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>をしている。」 (He's sensitive to cold, so he wears thick clothes in winter.) - This uses 'samugari'. If it were 'hiēshō', it might imply a deeper circulation issue.
'冷える' means 'to become cold', which is directly related to the concept of '冷え性'.
'Hie-ru' is the action of becoming cold. 'Hiēshō' is the condition of having a tendency to get cold easily, often due to poor circulation.
「<ruby>外<rp>(</rp><rt>そと</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>で<ruby>歩<rp>(</rp><rt>ある</rt><rp>)</rp>いたら<ruby>手足<rp>(</rp><rt>てあし</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>えた。」 (Soto de arukitara teashi ga hie-ta.) - "My hands and feet got cold after walking outside." This describes the action of getting cold. If the person consistently experiences this, they might say '<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>なんです。' (I have poor circulation.)
Poor circulation is often the cause of '冷え性'.
'Kekkō furyō' is the cause (poor circulation), while 'hiēshō' is the effect or condition (sensitivity to cold).
「<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>は<ruby>血<rp>(</rp><rt>けつ</rt><rp>)</rp>行<rp>(</rp><rt>こう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby><ruby>不<rp>(</rp><rt>ふ</rt><rp>)</rp>良<rp>(</rp><rt>りょう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>原因<rp>(</rp><rt>げんいん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>で<ruby>起<rp>(</rp><rt>お</rt><rp>)</rp>こることが<ruby>多<rp>(</rp><rt>おお</rt><rp>)</rp>い。」 (Hiēshō wa kekkō furyō ga gen'in de okoru koto ga ōi.) - "Sensitivity to cold often occurs due to poor circulation."
Poor regulation of body temperature can lead to feeling cold.
'Taion chōsetsu fuzen' is a general term for impaired temperature regulation, while 'hiēshō' is a specific manifestation of feeling cold due to circulatory issues.
「<ruby>体温調節不全<rp>(</rp><rt>たいおんちょうせつふぜん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>症状<rp>(</rp><rt>しょうじょう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>として、<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>が<ruby>現<rp>(</rp><rt>あらわ</rt><rp>)</rp>れる<ruby>場合<rp>(</rp><rt>ばあい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>もある。」 (Taion chōsetsu fuzen no shōjō to shite, hiēshō ga arawareru baai mo aru.) - "Sensitivity to cold may appear as a symptom of thermoregulation disorder."
It's the opposite condition, making it a point of contrast.
One is sensitive to heat ('atsugari'), the other to cold ('hiēshō').
「<ruby>私<rp>(</rp><rt>わたし</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>暑<rp>(</rp><rt>あつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby><ruby>がり<rp>(</rp><rt>がり</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>で<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>ではない。」 (Watashi wa atsugari de hiēshō de wa nai.) - "I am sensitive to heat and do not have poor circulation."
Sentence Patterns
私は<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>です。
<ruby>私<rp>(</rp><rt>わたし</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>です。
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>なので、<ruby>～</ruby>
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>なので、<ruby>夏<rp>(</rp><rt>なつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>でも<ruby>温<rp>(</rp><rt>あたた</rt><rp>)</rp>かい<ruby>飲<rp>(</rp><rt>の</rt><rp>)</rp>み<rp>(</rp><rt>み</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>ものを<ruby>飲<rp>(</rp><rt>の</rt><rp>)</rp>んでいます。
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>の<ruby>症状<rp>(</rp><rt>しょうじょう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>～</ruby>
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>の<ruby>症状<rp>(</rp><rt>しょうじょう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>手足<rp>(</rp><rt>てあし</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>たさです。
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>の<ruby>改善<rp>(</rp><rt>かいぜん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>には<ruby>～</ruby>
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>の<ruby>改善<rp>(</rp><rt>かいぜん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>には<ruby>適度<rp>(</rp><rt>てきど</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>な<ruby>運動<rp>(</rp><rt>うんどう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>良<rp>(</rp><rt>よ</rt><rp>)</rp>い。
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>は<ruby>血<rp>(</rp><rt>けつ</rt><rp>)</rp>行<rp>(</rp><rt>こう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby><ruby>不<rp>(</rp><rt>ふ</rt><rp>)</rp>良<rp>(</rp><rt>りょう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>原<rp>(</rp><rt>げん</rt><rp>)</rp>因<rp>(</rp><rt>いん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>だと<ruby>考<rp>(</rp><rt>かんが</rt><rp>)</rp>えられる。
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>は<ruby>血<rp>(</rp><rt>けつ</rt><rp>)</rp>行<rp>(</rp><rt>こう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby><ruby>不<rp>(</rp><rt>ふ</rt><rp>)</rp>良<rp>(</rp><rt>りょう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>原<rp>(</rp><rt>げん</rt><rp>)</rp>因<rp>(</rp><rt>いん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>だと<ruby>考<rp>(</rp><rt>かんが</rt><rp>)</rp>えられる。
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>の<ruby>人<rp>(</rp><rt>ひと</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>～</ruby>
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>の<ruby>人<rp>(</rp><rt>ひと</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は、<ruby>夏<rp>(</rp><rt>なつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>でも<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>房<rp>(</rp><rt>ぼう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>に<ruby>注意<rp>(</rp><rt>ちゅうい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>必要<rp>(</rp><rt>ひつよう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>です。
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>は<ruby>単<rp>(</rp><rt>たん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>なる<ruby>体質<rp>(</rp><rt>たいしつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>問題<rp>(</rp><rt>もんだい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>だけでなく<ruby>～</ruby>
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>は<ruby>単<rp>(</rp><rt>たん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>なる<ruby>体質<rp>(</rp><rt>たいしつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>問題<rp>(</rp><rt>もんだい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>だけでなく、<ruby>生活<rp>(</rp><rt>せいかつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>質<rp>(</rp><rt>しつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>にも<ruby>影響<rp>(</rp><rt>えいきょう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>及<rp>(</rp><rt>およ</rt><rp>)</rp>ぼす。
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>の<ruby>改善<rp>(</rp><rt>かいぜん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>には<ruby>～</ruby>が<ruby>不可<rp>(</rp><rt>ふ</rt><rp>)</rp>欠<rp>(</rp><rt>けつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>である。
<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>の<ruby>改善<rp>(</rp><rt>かいぜん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>には、<ruby>生活<rp>(</rp><rt>せいかつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>・<ruby>食事<rp>(</rp><rt>しょくじ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby><ruby>習慣<rp>(</rp><rt>しゅうかん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>見直<rp>(</rp><rt>みなお</rt><rp>)</rp>しが<rp>(</rp><rt>し</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby><ruby>不可<rp>(</rp><rt>ふ</rt><rp>)</rp>欠<rp>(</rp><rt>けつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>である。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High. It's a commonly used term in everyday conversation, especially during colder seasons.
-
Using 冷え性 (hiēshō) to mean just 'feeling cold'.
→
Using 冷える (hie-ru) or saying 寒い (samui).
'冷え性' refers to a persistent condition of being sensitive to cold, usually due to poor circulation, not just a temporary feeling. For example, saying '今日は冷え性だ' (Kyō wa hiēshō da - I feel cold today) is incorrect. It should be '今日は寒い' (Kyō wa samui - It's cold today) or '体が冷える' (Karada ga hie-ru - My body feels cold).
-
Using 冷え性 (hiēshō) as a verb.
→
Using it as a noun: 冷え性です (hiēshō desu) or 冷え性がある (hiēshō ga aru).
'冷え性' is a noun. The verb for 'to become cold' is '冷える' (hie-ru). You don't 'hiēshō suru' (do hiēshō). You say 'I have hiēshō' (冷え性です).
-
Confusing 冷え性 (hiēshō) with 寒がり (samugari) without acknowledging the circulation aspect.
→
Using '冷え性' when poor circulation is implied or known, and '寒がり' for general sensitivity to cold.
While often used interchangeably in casual talk, '冷え性' specifically points to poor circulation as a cause. If someone simply dislikes the cold but has good circulation, '寒がり' might be more precise. However, in many contexts, they overlap significantly.
-
Overstating the severity or using it as a formal diagnosis.
→
Using it to describe a personal condition or symptom, and consulting a doctor for formal diagnosis.
Saying 'I have a disease called hiēshō' sounds overly medical. It's better to say 'I have hiēshō' (冷え性なんです - hiēshō nan desu) or describe the symptoms. It's a common condition, not always a severe illness.
-
Ignoring the link to circulation.
→
Acknowledging or implying that poor circulation is often the reason for '冷え性'.
'冷え性' is strongly associated with poor blood flow. If you use the term without this underlying implication, it might sound incomplete. For example, simply saying 'I'm cold' isn't the same as saying 'I have hiēshō because of poor circulation'.
Tips
Use it to explain your needs.
When you feel cold and need to adjust the room temperature or ask for a blanket, saying '冷え性なので...' (Because I have poor circulation...) is a polite and common way to explain your situation.
Connect to 'hie' (cold).
Remember that '冷え性' starts with '冷え' (hie), which means coldness. Combine this with '性' (shō) for tendency, and you get 'cold tendency'.
A common topic in Japan.
Don't be surprised if Japanese people discuss '冷え性' openly. It's a widely understood and accepted physical trait, often discussed in relation to health and comfort.
Use as a noun.
'冷え性' is a noun. You can say '冷え性です' (I have it) or '冷え性なので' (because I have it). Avoid using it as a verb.
Listen to your body.
If you experience persistent coldness, especially in your extremities, it might be worth exploring ways to improve your circulation and overall body warmth.
Related terms.
Learn related terms like '寒がり' (samugari - sensitive to cold) and '血行不良' (kekkō furyō - poor circulation) to better understand the nuances.
Practice with examples.
Try creating your own sentences using '冷え性' to describe situations where you feel cold or need warmth. The more you use it, the more natural it will become.
Winter conversations.
This word is particularly relevant during autumn and winter. You'll hear it frequently when people discuss the weather and how it affects them physically.
Alternative Kanji (冷え症).
You might occasionally see '冷え症' (hieshō) with different kanji for 'shō'. Both mean the same thing and are used interchangeably, though '冷え性' is more common in everyday speech.
Warmth-promoting lifestyle.
Embracing an 'onkatsu' (温活) lifestyle, focusing on warming foods, gentle exercise, and warm baths, is often recommended for those with '冷え性'.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a person named 'Shō' who always feels 'hie' (cold) because their body is like a 'shi-no' (shi-no = death, implying coldness) house, always chilly. So, Shō's 'hie-shi-no' tendency is 'hie-shō'.
Visual Association
Picture a person whose hands and feet are permanently encased in ice, shivering uncontrollably. This extreme visual represents the constant coldness associated with '冷え性'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to explain to a friend in Japanese why you need to wear gloves indoors, using the word '冷え性' to describe your condition.
Word Origin
The word '冷え性' is a compound word formed in Japanese. It directly combines the concept of 'coldness' with 'nature' or 'tendency'.
Original meaning: Literally means 'cold nature' or 'tendency to be cold'.
JaponicCultural Context
The term '冷え性' highlights a particular type of physical sensitivity – to cold. This sensitivity is often described as being more pronounced than that of the average person, leading to discomfort or even pain in extremities. It's a recognized condition that people manage through various personal strategies and products.
In English-speaking cultures, while people understand the concept of feeling cold or having poor circulation, there isn't one single, widely recognized term that encapsulates '冷え性' as comprehensively. Phrases like 'sensitive to cold,' 'poor circulation,' or 'always cold' are used, but '冷え性' carries a specific nuance of a persistent, often constitutionally influenced, sensitivity to cold.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Discussing personal comfort and health in winter.
- <ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>なので、<ruby>冬<rp>(</rp><rt>ふゆ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>辛<rp>(</rp><rt>つら</rt><rp>)</rp>いです。
- <ruby>手足<rp>(</rp><rt>てあし</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>凍<rp>(</rp><rt>こお</rt><rp>)</rp>る<ruby>ほど<rp>(</rp><rt>ほど</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby> <ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>たいです。
- <ruby>温<rp>(</rp><rt>あたた</rt><rp>)</rp>かい<ruby>飲<rp>(</rp><rt>の</rt><rp>)</rp>み<rp>(</rp><rt>み</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>ものを<ruby>飲<rp>(</rp><rt>の</rt><rp>)</rp>んでいます。
- <ruby>厚着<rp>(</rp><rt>あつぎ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>をしています。
Seeking medical advice or discussing symptoms.
- <ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>で<ruby>悩<rp>(</rp><rt>なや</rt><rp>)</rp>んでいます。
- <ruby>血<rp>(</rp><rt>けつ</rt><rp>)</rp>行<rp>(</rp><rt>こう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby><ruby>不<rp>(</rp><rt>ふ</rt><rp>)</rp>良<rp>(</rp><rt>りょう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>でしょうか。
- <ruby>改善<rp>(</rp><rt>かいぜん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>する<rp>(</rp><rt>する</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby> <ruby>方法<rp>(</rp><rt>ほうほう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>はありますか。
- <ruby>体温<rp>(</rp><rt>たいおん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby><ruby>調節<rp>(</rp><rt>ちょうせつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>上手<rp>(</rp><rt>じょうず</rt><rp>)</rp>くない<rp>(</rp><rt>くない</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>ようです。
Shopping for health or comfort products.
- <ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>の<ruby>人<rp>(</rp><rt>ひと</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>に<ruby>おすすめ<rp>(</rp><rt>おすすめ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>商品<rp>(</rp><rt>しょうひん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>はありますか。
- この<ruby>靴下<rp>(</rp><rt>くつした</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>温<rp>(</rp><rt>あたた</rt><rp>)</rp>かい<rp>(</rp><rt>かい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>ですか。
- <ruby>温活<rp>(</rp><rt>おんかつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby> <ruby>グッズ<rp>(</rp><rt>グッズ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>探<rp>(</rp><rt>さが</rt><rp>)</rp>しています。
- <ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby> <ruby>対策<rp>(</rp><rt>たいさく</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>に<ruby>良<rp>(</rp><rt>よ</rt><rp>)</rp>い<rp>(</rp><rt>い</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>ものは<ruby>何<rp>(</rp><rt>なに</rt><rp>)</rp>ですか。
Discussing lifestyle and diet for well-being.
- <ruby>体<rp>(</rp><rt>からだ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>温<rp>(</rp><rt>あたた</rt><rp>)</rp>める<rp>(</rp><rt>める</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby> <ruby>食<rp>(</rp><rt>しょく</rt><rp>)</rp>事<rp>(</rp><rt>じ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>摂<rp>(</rp><rt>と</rt><rp>)</rp>っています。
- <ruby>生<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rt><rp>)</rp>姜<rp>(</rp><rt>が</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>や<ruby>根菜<rp>(</rp><rt>こんさい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>食<rp>(</rp><rt>た</rt><rp>)</rp>べています。
- <ruby>適度<rp>(</rp><rt>てきど</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>な<ruby>運動<rp>(</rp><rt>うんどう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>心<rp>(</rp><rt>こころ</rt><rp>)</rp>がけています。
- <ruby>入浴<rp>(</rp><rt>にゅうよく</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>で<ruby>体<rp>(</rp><rt>からだ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>温<rp>(</rp><rt>あたた</rt><rp>)</rp>めています。
Explaining personal preferences or limitations.
- <ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>え<ruby>性<rp>(</rp><rt>しょう</rp></ruby>なので、<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>ひ</rt><rp>)</rp>たい<ruby>飲<rp>(</rp><rt>の</rt><rp>)</rp>み<rp>(</rp><rt>み</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>ものは<ruby>避<rp>(</rp><rt>さ</rt><rp>)</rp>けています。
- <ruby>夏<rp>(</rp><rt>なつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>でも<ruby>羽織<rp>(</rp><rt>はおり</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>ものが<ruby>必要<rp>(</rp><rt>ひつよう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>です。
- <ruby>寒<rp>(</rp><rt>さむ</rt><rp>)</rp>い<ruby>場所<rp>(</rp><rt>ばしょ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>苦手<rp>(</rp><rt>にがて</rt><rp>)</rp>です。
- <ruby>暖房<rp>(</rp><rt>だんぼう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>強<rp>(</rp><rt>つよ</rt><rp>)</rp>くして<ruby>ほしい<rp>(</rp><rt>ほしい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>です。
Conversation Starters
"Do you get cold easily, or are you sensitive to cold like me?"
"When winter comes, my sensitivity to cold gets much worse. How about you?"
"I’ve been trying to find ways to improve my circulation. Do you have any tips?"
"What do you usually eat or do to stay warm during the colder months?"
"I find that my hands and feet are always cold. Is this something you experience too?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time when your sensitivity to cold significantly impacted your day or an activity you wanted to do.
What are some of the specific challenges you face due to your sensitivity to cold, and how do you try to overcome them?
Research and write about a traditional Japanese remedy or food that is believed to help with poor circulation or sensitivity to cold.
Imagine you are explaining your condition of '冷え性' to someone who has never heard of it. How would you describe it in simple terms?
Reflect on how your lifestyle habits (diet, exercise, sleep) might be affecting your circulation and sensitivity to cold. What changes could you make?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe literal meaning of 冷え性 (hiēshō) is 'cold nature' or 'tendency to be cold'. It is composed of 冷える (hie-ru), meaning 'to become cold', and 性 (shō), meaning 'nature' or 'tendency'. This directly reflects the condition of being overly sensitive to cold.
Generally, 冷え性 (hiēshō) is considered a common condition rather than a serious illness. It is often a symptom of poor circulation or can be influenced by lifestyle factors. However, if the symptoms are severe or accompanied by other concerning signs, it's advisable to consult a doctor to rule out underlying medical issues like anemia or thyroid problems.
The most common symptoms include cold hands and feet, which often feel numb or even painful. Other symptoms can include a general feeling of coldness in the body, fatigue, and sometimes swelling in the extremities. These symptoms tend to worsen in colder weather.
The primary cause is often poor blood circulation, meaning blood doesn't reach the extremities effectively. Other contributing factors can include a sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise, stress, insufficient sleep, hormonal imbalances (especially in women), low body weight, and certain medical conditions like anemia or hypotension.
Improving 冷え性 often involves lifestyle changes. This includes regular exercise to boost circulation, eating warming foods (like ginger, cinnamon, and root vegetables), taking warm baths, managing stress, ensuring adequate sleep, and avoiding prolonged exposure to cold. In some cases, medical advice might be sought for underlying causes.
Yes, men can also have 冷え性 (hiēshō). While it is often perceived as more common in women due to hormonal factors and differences in body composition, men can experience poor circulation and cold extremities for various reasons, including lifestyle and underlying health conditions.
'寒がり' (samugari) is a general term for someone who is easily cold or sensitive to cold. '冷え性' (hiēshō) is more specific, implying that the sensitivity to cold is due to poor circulation and often manifests as persistent coldness in the hands and feet. '冷え性' suggests a more physiological reason for feeling cold.
Yes, traditional advice suggests eating 'warming' foods. These include ginger, garlic, onions, cinnamon, black pepper, and root vegetables like carrots and burdock root. Fermented foods are also often recommended. Conversely, 'cooling' foods like raw vegetables, ice cream, and excessive amounts of dairy are often advised against.
While not a direct cause of mental illness, chronic discomfort from '冷え性' can certainly impact one's overall well-being and mood. Constant coldness and discomfort can lead to fatigue, irritability, and a reduced quality of life, which can indirectly affect mental health.
In Kampō, '冷え性' is often seen as a symptom of imbalances in 'ki' (energy) and 'ketsu' (blood). Treatments might involve herbal remedies tailored to the individual's constitution to improve circulation, warm the body, and restore balance. Acupuncture and moxibustion are also sometimes used.
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Summary
冷え性 (hiēshō) describes a common condition in Japan where individuals are highly sensitive to cold, primarily due to poor circulation, resulting in consistently cold extremities like hands and feet. It's a frequently discussed topic related to personal health and comfort.
- A condition of being overly sensitive to cold.
- Often caused by poor blood circulation.
- Leads to cold hands and feet.
- Commonly discussed in Japan regarding health and comfort.
Use it to explain your needs.
When you feel cold and need to adjust the room temperature or ask for a blanket, saying '冷え性なので...' (Because I have poor circulation...) is a polite and common way to explain your situation.
Connect to 'hie' (cold).
Remember that '冷え性' starts with '冷え' (hie), which means coldness. Combine this with '性' (shō) for tendency, and you get 'cold tendency'.
A common topic in Japan.
Don't be surprised if Japanese people discuss '冷え性' openly. It's a widely understood and accepted physical trait, often discussed in relation to health and comfort.
Use as a noun.
'冷え性' is a noun. You can say '冷え性です' (I have it) or '冷え性なので' (because I have it). Avoid using it as a verb.
Example
彼女は冷え性なので、冬は手足が冷たい。
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しばらく
B1For a while, for some time.
異変がある
B1To have an unusual change or abnormality.
異常な
B1Abnormal; unusual; irregular.
擦り傷
B1Scratch, graze, abrasion.
吸収する
B1To absorb.
禁酒
B1Abstinence from alcohol; the act of refraining from alcohol.
痛む
A2to hurt; to ache
鍼灸
B1Acupuncture and moxibustion; traditional Chinese medicine treatments.
急性的
B1Acute.
急性な
B1Acute
