This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

Home
Learn
Japanese
Vocabulary
持続可能性

B2 noun 9 min read

持続可能性

jizoku kanosei

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 持続可能性 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 持続可能性 in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word '持続可能性' (jizoku kanōsei) is very advanced. It is a long word made of five kanji characters. For a beginner, you can think of it as 'keeping things good for a long time.' For example, if you use a lot of water today, there might be no water tomorrow. If you use water carefully so there is always water, that is 'sustainability.' In Japanese, you might first learn simple words like 'tsuzuku' (to continue) or 'taisetsu' (important). This word is like a very professional version of those ideas. You won't need to say this word in a restaurant or at the airport, but you might see it on a poster about the environment. Just remember: it means 'can continue' (jizoku = continue, kanō = can). It is about being kind to the Earth and the future.

At the A2 level, you are starting to learn more complex nouns. '持続可能性' (jizoku kanōsei) is a noun that means 'sustainability.' You might hear it in news reports about nature or recycling. In Japan, people care a lot about the 'SDGs' (Sustainable Development Goals). You will see this word near the SDG logo. A simpler way to say the same idea at this level is 'zutto tsuzuku koto' (the thing that continues forever). If a business is 'sustainable,' it means it can keep going for many years without problems. When you see this word, look at the kanji. '持' means hold, and '続' means continue. If you 'hold and continue' something, you are practicing sustainability. You can use it like this: 'Kankyō no jizoku kanōsei' (The sustainability of the environment).

At the B1 level, you should begin to recognize '持続可能性' (jizoku kanōsei) in written texts, such as articles about the environment or social issues. This word is a formal noun. It is often used to discuss how we can live without hurting the future. You should also learn the adjective form: '持続可能な' (jizoku kanōna), which means 'sustainable.' For example, '持続可能な社会' (a sustainable society) is a very common phrase. At this level, you can start using it in your own writing or speaking when you talk about your opinions on the world. It sounds much more professional than just saying 'zutto tsuzuku.' It shows you understand a specific social and scientific concept. Try to remember the structure: Jizoku (Continue) + Kanō (Possible) + Sei (-ity).

At the B2 level, you are expected to use '持続可能性' (jizoku kanōsei) accurately in discussions and essays. This is a key term for the JLPT N2 and for professional life in Japan. You should understand that it isn't just about the environment; it also applies to economics (経済の持続可能性) and social systems. You should be able to distinguish it from '継続性' (keizokusei), which is just 'continuity.' Sustainability implies a balance of resources. You will often see it used with verbs like '追求する' (tsuikyū suru - to pursue), '高める' (takameru - to increase), or '考慮する' (kōryo suru - to consider). For instance, '持続可能性を考慮した経営' (management that considers sustainability). You should also be comfortable with the katakana version 'サステナビリティ,' knowing that the kanji version is more formal.

At the C1 level, your understanding of '持続可能性' (jizoku kanōsei) should be nuanced and deep. You should be able to discuss the philosophical and systemic implications of this term. In Japan, the discourse around sustainability often intersects with traditional concepts like 'Mottainai' or 'Satoyama' (managed woodlands). You should be able to use the word in complex sentences, such as '持続可能性を担保するための法整備' (establishing a legal framework to guarantee sustainability). At this level, you should also recognize its use in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing and corporate social responsibility (CSR). You should be able to critique whether a certain policy truly possesses 'jizoku kanōsei' or if it is merely 'greenwashing.' Your vocabulary should also include related terms like '循環型社会' (junkangata shakai - a circular society).

At the C2 level, '持続可能性' (jizoku kanōsei) is a fundamental part of your professional and academic lexicon. You can use it to engage in high-level debates about global governance, resource management, and ethical philosophy. You understand the historical shift in Japan from the rapid economic growth era to the current focus on 'sustainable growth.' You can use the term with absolute precision, perhaps discussing the '持続可能性の三本柱' (the three pillars of sustainability: economic, social, environmental). You are also aware of the subtle linguistic choices between using '持続可能性' and more specific terms like '永続性' (permanence) or '存立' (existence/survival) in legal or constitutional contexts. You can write comprehensive reports or deliver speeches where this concept is central, articulating the balance between human needs and planetary boundaries with native-level fluency.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

持続可能性 in 30 Seconds

持続可能性 (jizoku kanōsei) means sustainability, focusing on the ability of a system to endure without depleting resources or causing future harm.
It is a formal noun used extensively in business, government, and environmental contexts, often linked to the global SDGs movement in Japan.
The word is composed of 'jizoku' (continuation), 'kanō' (possible), and 'sei' (-ity), literally meaning 'possibility of continuation.'
It is distinct from 'continuity' (keizokusei) as it implies a balanced, ethical, and resource-conscious approach to the future.

The Japanese word 持続可能性 (jizoku kanōsei) is the direct equivalent of the English term 'sustainability.' While it might look like a daunting five-kanji compound, it is logically constructed from three distinct parts: jizoku (continuation), kanō (possibility), and sei (a suffix meaning -ity or nature). Together, they literally mean 'the nature of the possibility of continuation.' In modern Japan, this word has moved from the niche halls of environmental science into the mainstream lexicon, largely driven by the global push for the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). You will find this word prominently displayed in corporate reports, government policy documents, and educational curricula across the country.

Environmental Context: This refers to the practice of utilizing natural resources in a way that they remain available for future generations. It involves reducing carbon footprints and preserving biodiversity.
Economic Context: In business, it refers to a company's ability to maintain its operations and profitability over the long term without depleting its resources or damaging its reputation.
Social Context: This involves creating systems that support human well-being, equity, and justice, ensuring that society can function harmoniously indefinitely.

この都市開発計画は、環境の持続可能性を最優先にしています。(This urban development plan prioritizes environmental sustainability.)

Interestingly, the term has become so ubiquitous that many Japanese people now also use the katakana version, sasutenabiriti (サステナビリティ). However, 持続可能性 remains the preferred term in formal writing, academic papers, and news broadcasts because it conveys a more grounded, serious tone. When discussing 'sustainability' as a broad concept or a specific metric, this kanji compound is your most reliable choice. It captures the essence of endurance and viability that is central to the global conversation on climate change and social ethics.

企業の持続可能性を評価する指標が必要です。(Metrics to evaluate corporate sustainability are necessary.)

The word is versatile. It can be applied to agriculture (持続可能な農業), energy (持続可能なエネルギー), and even lifestyles (持続可能な暮らし). In a society like Japan, which faces challenges such as a shrinking population and resource scarcity, the concept of jizoku kanōsei is not just a buzzword; it is a critical framework for future survival. Understanding this word gives you a window into the values of modern Japanese society and its commitment to balancing tradition with future-proofing.

Grammatically, 持続可能性 (jizoku kanōsei) functions as a noun. Because it is a conceptual noun, it is frequently the subject or object of a sentence, often followed by particles like wa (は), ga (が), or o (を). It is also very common to see it modified by other nouns using the particle no (の), such as kankyō no jizoku kanōsei (environmental sustainability). To turn it into an adjective meaning 'sustainable,' you remove the sei (性) and add na (な), resulting in jizoku kanōna (持続可能な).

As a Subject: 持続可能性が問われている。(Sustainability is being questioned.)
As an Object: 持続可能性を追求する。(To pursue sustainability.)
With Modifiers: 経済の持続可能性を高める。(To increase economic sustainability.)

私たちは持続可能性のある社会を目指すべきだ。(We should aim for a society with sustainability.)

In professional settings, you will often hear it paired with verbs like kaku (欠く - to lack), iji suru (維持する - to maintain), or kōryo suru (考慮する - to consider). For example, if a project is deemed 'unsustainable,' you might say it jizoku kanōsei ni kakeru (lacks sustainability). This level of precision is expected in business meetings and academic discussions. The word is rarely used in very casual speech unless the topic itself is serious, such as discussing politics or the environment over coffee.

このビジネスモデルは持続可能性に欠けている。(This business model lacks sustainability.)

When writing, ensure you use the correct kanji for jizoku (持続). The first kanji ji (持) means to hold, and the second zoku (続) means to continue. Together, they create a strong image of 'holding something so it continues.' This visual cue can help you remember the meaning: it's not just about things lasting on their own, but about the active effort to keep them going. In a B2 level context, you should be able to integrate this word into essays about global issues or corporate responsibility with ease.

You are most likely to encounter 持続可能性 (jizoku kanōsei) in environments that focus on the future and responsibility. On Japanese television, news programs like NHK's 'Close-up Gendai' frequently feature segments on environmental policy where this word is used repeatedly. In the business world, almost every major Japanese corporation, from Toyota to Sony, has a section on their website dedicated to jizoku kanōsei or SDGs, highlighting their efforts to be 'green' and socially responsible.

The News: Reporting on climate summits (COP), renewable energy transitions, or global food security issues.
Corporate Reports: Annual 'Sustainability Reports' (持続可能性報告書) that detail a company's impact on the planet and society.
Education: High school and university entrance exams often feature reading comprehension passages about global sustainability.

今日のニュースでは、エネルギーの持続可能性について議論されました。(In today's news, the sustainability of energy was discussed.)

Interestingly, the word has also started appearing in the fashion and food industries in Japan. 'Sustainable fashion' (持続可能なファッション) is a growing trend, focusing on recycled materials and fair labor. Similarly, 'sustainable seafood' (持続可能な水産物) is a topic of concern in a nation that consumes a vast amount of fish. When you walk through a Japanese supermarket or a department store like Isetan, you might see labels or posters emphasizing the jizoku kanōsei of their products.

このブランドは、持続可能性を重視した素材を使用しています。(This brand uses materials that prioritize sustainability.)

In academic settings, professors use this word to discuss everything from urban planning to the longevity of the Japanese pension system. It is a word that bridges the gap between the hard sciences and social sciences. If you are preparing for the JLPT N1 or N2, or if you plan to work in a Japanese office, being comfortable with jizoku kanōsei is essential. It is not just a vocabulary word; it is a key to understanding the modern Japanese worldview and its response to global crises.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 持続可能性 (jizoku kanōsei) is confusing it with similar-sounding words like keizokusei (継続性 - continuity) or iji (維持 - maintenance). While they are related, they are not interchangeable. Keizokusei refers simply to the act of something continuing without stopping, like a streak or a sequence. Jizoku kanōsei, however, carries the specific nuance of being able to continue because the system is balanced and doesn't run out of resources.

Confusing with 継続性 (Keizokusei): Incorrect: 'The continuity of the forest.' Correct: 'The sustainability of the forest' (implies it won't be destroyed).
Misusing the Suffix: Learners often forget the 'kanō' (possible) part and just say 'jizokusei.' While 'jizokusei' is a word, it lacks the specific 'ability to be sustained' nuance of 'jizoku kanōsei.'
Overusing Katakana: While 'sasutenabiriti' is common, using it in a formal essay instead of 'jizoku kanōsei' can make the writing feel light or overly trendy.

✕ 業務の持続可能性を保つ。(Usually, 'keizokusei' is better for business operations.)

Another mistake is using the wrong particle. Since it is a long noun, people sometimes get lost in the sentence. Remember that jizoku kanōsei is a single unit. You don't need to put 'no' between jizoku and kanōsei. It is one solid compound. Also, be careful with the verb suru. You cannot say 'jizoku kanōsei suru.' You must say 'jizoku kanōna jōtai ni suru' (make it a sustainable state) or use the verb jizoku saseru (to make something continue).

○ 持続可能性のある開発 (Sustainable development - noun form). ○ 持続可能な開発 (Sustainable development - adjective form).

Finally, pay attention to the nuance of 'sustainability' in English versus Japanese. In English, we sometimes use 'sustainable' to mean 'bearable' (e.g., 'this workload isn't sustainable'). In Japanese, jizoku kanōsei is almost always reserved for the larger-scale environmental, social, or economic systems. For a workload, a Japanese person would more likely use muri ga aru (it's impossible/overdoing it) or tsuzukanai (it won't continue).

While 持続可能性 (jizoku kanōsei) is the standard term for sustainability, several other words offer slightly different shades of meaning. Understanding these can help you choose the most precise word for your context. For instance, keizokusei (継続性) focuses on the temporal aspect of staying the same, while eizokusei (永続性) refers to something lasting forever, like an eternal flame or a permanent peace.

サステナビリティ (Sasutenabiriti): The katakana loanword. Used frequently in marketing, fashion, and modern business to sound global and trendy.
継続性 (Keizokusei): Continuity. Used for business operations, research projects, or habits. It doesn't necessarily imply environmental or ethical balance.
永続性 (Eizokusei): Perpetuity or permanence. A stronger, more philosophical word for something that should last forever.

このプロジェクトには継続性が必要だ。(This project needs continuity.) vs 持続可能性 (needs sustainability).

If you are talking about 'maintaining' a certain level, the word iji (維持) is very common. For example, genjō iji (maintaining the status quo). However, iji is a verb-noun and doesn't carry the 'future-proofing' nuance that jizoku kanōsei does. Another interesting alternative is saisei kanō (再生可能), which means 'renewable.' This is almost exclusively used for energy (再生可能エネルギー) and is a key component of sustainability.

再生可能エネルギーは、持続可能性の鍵です。(Renewable energy is the key to sustainability.)

Finally, in very formal or literary contexts, you might see kyōsei (共生), which means 'symbiosis' or 'living together.' While not a synonym for sustainability, it is often used in the phrase shizen to no kyōsei (living in harmony with nature), which is a core goal of sustainability in the Japanese context. By mastering these nuances, you will sound much more like a native speaker who understands the complexities of the Japanese language and its approach to global issues.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In the early 1990s, the word was rarely used outside of environmental textbooks, but now it appears in almost every corporate TV commercial in Japan.

Pronunciation Guide

UK dʒi.zo.ku.ka.noː.se.i

US dʒi.zo.ku.ka.noː.se.i

Japanese is a pitch-accent language. This word generally has a flat (heiban) accent, meaning the pitch stays relatively level after an initial rise.

Rhymes With

かのうせい (kanōsei) せい (sei) めい (mei) れい (rei) けい (kei) へい (hei) てい (tei) ねい (nei)

Common Errors

Shortening the long 'ō' in kanō.
Mispronouncing 'jizoku' as 'jisoku' (speed).
Stressing the wrong syllable (Japanese syllables should have equal length).
Blending 'sei' into a single English 'say' sound instead of two distinct Japanese vowels.
Forgetting the 'u' after 'o' in writing/reading (kanō is written as kanou).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Five kanji compounds are visually complex and require N2-level kanji knowledge.

Writing 4/5

Writing the kanji for 'zoku' (続) and 'nō' (能) can be tricky for learners.

Speaking 3/5

Long but rhythmic; easy to pronounce once you master the cadence.

Listening 3/5

Common in news and business; usually enunciated clearly.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

持続 (jizoku) 可能 (kanō) 性 (sei) 環境 (kankyō) 社会 (shakai)

Learn Next

再生可能エネルギー (renewable energy) 循環型社会 (circular society) 社会的責任 (social responsibility) 多様性 (diversity) 包摂性 (inclusivity)

Advanced

カーボンニュートラル (carbon neutral) 脱炭素 (decarbonization) 生態系 (ecosystem) 生物多様性 (biodiversity) 倫理的消費 (ethical consumption)

Grammar to Know

Noun + の + Noun (Possessive/Relational)

環境の持続可能性 (Sustainability of the environment)

Na-Adjective formation with 'na'

持続可能な開発 (Sustainable development)

Tame ni (Purpose)

持続可能性を高めるために (In order to increase sustainability)

O mochiite (Using a tool/method)

持続可能性指標を用いて (Using sustainability indicators)

Ni oite (In/At a context)

ビジネスにおいて持続可能性は重要だ (Sustainability is important in business)

Examples by Level

このみずは、じぞくかのうせいがたいせつです。

Sustainability is important for this water.

Simple 'A wa B desu' structure.

じぞくかのうなせかいをつくりましょう。

Let's make a sustainable world.

Using the adjective form 'jizoku kanōna'.

じぞくかのうせいは、みらいのことです。

Sustainability is about the future.

Noun + particle 'wa'.

これは、じぞくかのうなごみばこです。

This is a sustainable trash can.

Adjective modifying a noun.

じぞくかのうせいをべんきょうします。

I will study sustainability.

Object marker 'o' with a verb.

じぞくかのうせいは、むずかしいですか？

Is sustainability difficult?

Question form.

みんなでじぞくかのうせいをかんがえます。

Everyone thinks about sustainability.

Subject 'minna de' (together as a group).

じぞくかのうなでんきをつかいます。

We use sustainable electricity.

Adjective modifying 'denki' (electricity).

環境の持続可能性について話しましょう。

Let's talk about the sustainability of the environment.

Using 'no' to connect two nouns.

この会社は持続可能性を大事にしています。

This company values sustainability.

Verb 'daiji ni shite imu' (to value/treasure).

持続可能なエネルギーが必要です。

Sustainable energy is necessary.

Noun + ga hitsuyō desu (need X).

持続可能性は私たちの課題です。

Sustainability is our challenge.

Noun as a topic.

持続可能な開発目標を知っていますか？

Do you know the Sustainable Development Goals?

Full phrase for SDGs.

持続可能性を高めるためにリサイクルします。

I recycle to increase sustainability.

Tame ni (in order to).

持続可能性がないビジネスは失敗します。

Businesses without sustainability will fail.

Relative clause 'jizoku kanōsei ga nai'.

持続可能性を意識して生活しています。

I live my life being conscious of sustainability.

Ishiki shite (being conscious of).

将来の世代のために、持続可能性を追求しなければならない。

For the sake of future generations, we must pursue sustainability.

Must form 'nakereba naranai'.

このプロジェクトの持続可能性には疑問がある。

There are doubts about the sustainability of this project.

Gimon ga aru (to have doubts).

持続可能な社会を実現するためには、協力が必要です。

Cooperation is necessary to realize a sustainable society.

Tame ni wa (in order to...).

最近、持続可能性という言葉をよく耳にするようになった。

Recently, I've come to hear the word sustainability often.

To iu kotoba (the word called...).

持続可能性を考慮した製品が人気を集めている。

Products that consider sustainability are gaining popularity.

Kōryo shita (considered).

私たちは資源の持続可能性について真剣に考えるべきだ。

We should think seriously about the sustainability of resources.

Bekki da (should).

持続可能性を無視した経済成長は長く続かない。

Economic growth that ignores sustainability won't last long.

Mushi shita (ignored).

持続可能性の観点から、この計画を見直す必要がある。

From the perspective of sustainability, we need to review this plan.

No kanten kara (from the perspective of).

企業の社会的責任として、持続可能性への取り組みが求められている。

As corporate social responsibility, efforts toward sustainability are being demanded.

Passive voice 'motomerarete iru'.

持続可能性を担保するための具体的な施策を提示してください。

Please present specific measures to guarantee sustainability.

Tame no (for the purpose of).

このビジネスモデルは、長期的には持続可能性に欠けていると言わざるを得ない。

I have to say that this business model lacks sustainability in the long run.

Iwazaru o enai (cannot help but say).

農業の持続可能性を確保するために、新しい技術が導入された。

New technology was introduced to ensure the sustainability of agriculture.

Kakuho suru (to ensure/secure).

持続可能性の向上は、今やあらゆる産業において不可欠な要素となっている。

Improving sustainability has now become an indispensable element in every industry.

Fukatsu na (indispensable).

環境保護と経済発展の持続可能性をどう両立させるかが鍵だ。

The key is how to balance the sustainability of environmental protection and economic development.

Ryōritsu saseru (to balance/make both stand).

持続可能性指標を用いて、地域の発展を評価する。

Evaluate regional development using sustainability indicators.

O mochiite (using).

持続可能性という概念は、1980年代から国際的に議論されてきた。

The concept of sustainability has been discussed internationally since the 1980s.

Passive present perfect 'giron sarete kita'.

持続可能性を中核に据えた経営戦略が、投資家から高く評価されている。

Management strategies with sustainability at their core are highly valued by investors.

Chūkaku ni sueta (placed at the core).

都市の持続可能性を議論する際、インフラの老朽化は避けて通れない問題だ。

When discussing urban sustainability, the aging of infrastructure is an unavoidable issue.

Sakete tōrenai (unavoidable).

持続可能性の定義は多岐にわたるが、基本的には将来世代の利益を損なわないことである。

The definition of sustainability is wide-ranging, but basically, it means not compromising the interests of future generations.

Takini wataru (wide-ranging).

持続可能性を軽視する企業は、市場からの淘汰を免れないだろう。

Companies that neglect sustainability will likely not escape being weeded out by the market.

Tōta o manukarenai (cannot escape elimination).

生態系の持続可能性を維持するためには、抜本的な改革が必要だ。

Drastic reforms are necessary to maintain the sustainability of the ecosystem.

Bapponteki na (drastic/fundamental).

持続可能性というパラダイムシフトが、消費者の行動を劇的に変えている。

The paradigm shift of sustainability is dramatically changing consumer behavior.

Paradaimu shifuto (paradigm shift).

持続可能性報告書の透明性を高めることが、企業の信頼構築に直結する。

Increasing the transparency of sustainability reports directly leads to building corporate trust.

Chokketsu suru (to be directly linked).

持続可能性の探求は、人類が直面している最も困難かつ重要な課題の一つである。

The pursuit of sustainability is one of the most difficult and important challenges facing humanity.

Chokumen shite iru (facing).

持続可能性の概念を法的に明文化し、実効性を持たせることが急務である。

It is an urgent matter to codify the concept of sustainability into law and make it effective.

Meibunka suru (to codify/write clearly).

持続可能性というレトリックが、実態を伴わないグリーンウォッシュに利用される懸念がある。

There is a concern that the rhetoric of sustainability is being used for greenwashing that lacks substance.

Retorikku (rhetoric).

持続可能性を巡る国際的な合意形成には、先進国と途上国の利害調整が不可欠だ。

In forming international consensus on sustainability, balancing the interests of developed and developing nations is indispensable.

Rigai chōsei (interest adjustment).

持続可能性の追求は、単なる環境保護を超え、文明の存立基盤を再構築する試みである。

The pursuit of sustainability goes beyond mere environmental protection; it is an attempt to reconstruct the very foundations of civilization.

Sonritsu kiban (foundational basis for existence).

持続可能性の欠如がもたらすシステミック・リスクを過小評価してはならない。

We must not underestimate the systemic risks caused by a lack of sustainability.

Kashō hyōka (underestimation).

持続可能性の実現に向けたイノベーションが、新たな経済的パラダイムを創出している。

Innovation toward the realization of sustainability is creating a new economic paradigm.

Sōshutsu suru (to create/generate).

持続可能性を静的な目標ではなく、動的なプロセスとして捉えるべきだ。

Sustainability should be viewed not as a static goal, but as a dynamic process.

Seiteki (static) vs Dōteki (dynamic).

持続可能性の哲学的背景には、世代間の正義という深遠なテーマが横たわっている。

Behind the philosophical background of sustainability lies the profound theme of intergenerational justice.

Yokotawatte iru (lies/is situated).

Synonyms

サステナビリティ永続性維持可能性

Antonyms

一時的消耗性

Common Collocations

持続可能性を高める

持続可能性を追求する

持続可能性に欠ける

環境の持続可能性

経済の持続可能性

持続可能性報告書

持続可能性指標

持続可能性を考慮する

社会的持続可能性

持続可能性を担保する

Common Phrases

持続可能な開発

— Sustainable development. A standard term in global policy.

持続可能な開発のための教育。

持続可能な社会

— Sustainable society. A common goal for governments.

持続可能な社会の構築。

持続可能な暮らし

— Sustainable lifestyle. Living in an eco-friendly way.

持続可能な暮らしを提案する。

持続可能な農業

— Sustainable agriculture. Farming that doesn't deplete soil.

持続可能な農業を支援する。

持続可能なファッション

— Sustainable fashion. Ethical and eco-friendly clothing.

持続可能なファッションを選ぶ。

持続可能なエネルギー

— Sustainable energy. Renewable sources like solar/wind.

持続可能なエネルギーへの転換。

持続可能な利用

— Sustainable use. Using resources at a renewable rate.

森林資源の持続可能な利用。

持続可能な経済成長

— Sustainable economic growth. Growth that can last.

持続可能な経済成長を達成する。

持続可能な観光

— Sustainable tourism. Tourism that protects local sites.

持続可能な観光を推進する。

持続可能な食生活

— Sustainable diet. Eating habits that are eco-friendly.

持続可能な食生活を心がける。

Often Confused With

持続可能性 vs 継続性 (Keizokusei)

Refers to the simple act of continuing over time, without the nuance of resource balance.

持続可能性 vs 永続性 (Eizokusei)

Refers to something lasting forever or being permanent, rather than being 'sustainably managed'.

持続可能性 vs 維持 (Iji)

A verb-noun meaning 'maintenance'. It's more about keeping things as they are right now.

Idioms & Expressions

"持続可能性の三本柱"

— The three pillars of sustainability (economic, social, environmental).

持続可能性の三本柱をバランスよく保つ。

Academic/Business

"持続可能性を軸にする"

— To make sustainability the central axis or core of something.

持続可能性を軸にした経営を行う。

Business

"持続可能性への挑戦"

— The challenge toward sustainability.

それは人類全体の持続可能性への挑戦だ。

Formal

"持続可能性を問う"

— To question the sustainability of something.

現代の消費社会の持続可能性を問う。

Critical/Academic

"持続可能性に根ざした"

— Rooted in sustainability.

持続可能性に根ざした地域づくり。

Formal/Literary

"持続可能性を見据える"

— To look toward or focus on sustainability in the future.

100年後の持続可能性を見据える。

Visionary/Formal

"持続可能性を担保する"

— To guarantee sustainability.

資源の持続可能性を担保する仕組み。

Legal/Formal

"持続可能性を損なう"

— To damage or compromise sustainability.

過度な開発は持続可能性を損なう。

Formal

"持続可能性を最優先する"

— To prioritize sustainability above all else.

利益よりも持続可能性を最優先する方針。

Business/Policy

"持続可能性の観点から"

— From the perspective of sustainability.

持続可能性の観点から見ると、この方法は不適切だ。

Analytical/Formal

Easily Confused

持続可能性 vs 持続性 (Jizokusei)

It also means 'persistency' or 'durability'.

'Jizokusei' usually refers to how long something lasts (like a medicine's effect), while 'jizoku kanōsei' is the broad concept of sustainability.

この薬は持続性が高い。(This medicine has high persistence.)

持続可能性 vs 自給率 (Jikyū-ritsu)

Often discussed alongside sustainability in Japan.

'Jikyū-ritsu' is the self-sufficiency rate (e.g., food), which is a component of sustainability but not the same thing.

日本の食料自給率は低い。(Japan's food self-sufficiency rate is low.)

持続可能性 vs 再生可能 (Saisei kanō)

Commonly used in 'Sustainable Energy'.

'Saisei kanō' specifically means 'renewable' (can be reborn), whereas 'jizoku kanō' means 'can be sustained'.

再生可能エネルギーを利用する。(Use renewable energy.)

持続可能性 vs 存続 (Sonzoku)

Both involve things lasting.

'Sonzoku' is about the survival of an entity (like a company or species) often in the face of a threat.

会社の存続をかけて戦う。(Fight for the survival of the company.)

持続可能性 vs 安定性 (Anteisei)

Both imply a lack of collapse.

'Anteisei' is 'stability'. A system can be stable but not sustainable (e.g., a stable but resource-depleting factory).

このシステムは安定性が高い。(This system has high stability.)

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] の持続可能性

環境の持続可能性

持続可能な [Noun]

持続可能な社会

持続可能性を高める

持続可能性を高めるための努力

持続可能性を考慮する

持続可能性を考慮した経営

持続可能性に欠ける

この計画は持続可能性に欠ける

持続可能性を担保する

将来の持続可能性を担保する

持続可能性の観点から

持続可能性の観点から議論する

持続可能性を中核に据える

持続可能性を経営の中核に据える

Word Family

Nouns

持続 (jizoku) - continuation

可能性 (kanōsei) - possibility

持続性 (jizokusei) - persistency

Verbs

持続する (jizoku suru) - to continue/sustain

持続させる (jizoku saseru) - to make something continue

Adjectives

持続可能な (jizoku kanōna) - sustainable

持続的な (jizokuteki na) - continuous/sustained

環境保護 (kankyō hogo) - environmental protection

再生可能 (saisei kanō) - renewable

循環 (junkan) - circulation/cycle

保全 (hozen) - preservation

共生 (kyōsei) - symbiosis

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in media and corporate communications; medium in daily casual conversation.

Common Mistakes

Using 'jizokusei' (持続性) for environmental sustainability. → 持続可能性 (jizoku kanōsei)
While 'jizokusei' exists, it usually refers to the duration or persistence of a physical effect (like a drug or a battery), not the broad socio-environmental concept.
Saying 'jizoku kanōsei na' (持続可能性な). → 持続可能な (jizoku kanōna)
You cannot add 'na' to the noun form 'kanōsei'. Use the adjective form 'kanōna' to describe a noun.
Confusing 'jizoku' with 'jisoku' (時速). → 持続 (jizoku)
'Jisoku' means 'speed per hour'. Mispronouncing the 'z' as 's' completely changes the meaning.
Using 'jizoku kanōsei' for 'bearable' workload. → 無理がない (muri ga nai) or 続けられる (tsuzukerareru)
In Japanese, 'jizoku kanōsei' is a big, formal concept. For personal workloads, use simpler words like 'muri' (impossible/overdoing it).
Writing 'jizoku kanōsei' with the wrong kanji for 'sei' (like 制). → 性 (sei)
The suffix for '-ity' or 'nature' is always 性 (sei). 制 (sei) refers to a system or control.

Tips

Adjective vs Noun

Always remember: '持続可能な' (na-adj) modifies nouns directly. '持続可能性' (noun) is used with particles like 'wa', 'ga', or 'o'.

Katakana usage

If you are writing for a trendy fashion blog, use サステナビリティ. If you are writing a report for a professor, use 持続可能性.

The Kanji Logic

Break it down: Hold (持) + Continue (続) + Possible (可) + Ability (能) + Nature (性). It's the nature of being able to hold and continue.

SDGs in Japan

Look for the colorful 17-color wheel in Japan. Whenever you see it, the word '持続可能性' is nearby.

Balance is Key

Sustainability isn't just 'lasting'; it's 'lasting because it's balanced'. Keep this in mind for correct usage.

Rhythm

Say it as 'Ji-zo-ku / Ka-no-u / Se-i'. The 3-4-2 syllable rhythm makes it easier to remember.

Kanji Precision

The kanji '能' (ability) is also in 'nouryoku'. It helps to associate sustainability with the 'ability' of the earth to provide.

News keywords

When you hear 'kankyō' (environment), get ready to hear 'jizoku kanōsei' soon after.

ESG Investing

In Japanese finance, sustainability is a huge part of 'ESG tōshi' (ESG investing). Learn this word if you work in finance.

Global Context

This word is the bridge between Japanese and global environmental conversations. It's a high-value word for international speakers.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Ji' (Hold) and 'Zoku' (Continue). You are holding onto the future so it can continue. Add 'Kanō' (Can) and 'Sei' (-ity). It's the 'Hold-Continue-Can-ity'.

Visual Association

Imagine a hand (持) holding a long thread (続) that goes over a mountain (可) into a bright future (能). The whole scene is the 'nature' (性) of sustainability.

Word Web

Environment SDGs Economy Future Resources Balance Long-term Nature

Challenge

Try to use '持続可能性' in a sentence about your own life, like your study habits or your budget.

Word Origin

The word is a modern Sino-Japanese compound (Kango) created to translate the Western concept of 'sustainability.' It gained prominence after the 1987 Brundtland Report.

Original meaning: The literal meaning is 'possibility of continuation.'

Sino-Japanese (Kanji-based).

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use it for trivial things; it is a serious word for serious topics.

In English, 'sustainability' is often shortened to 'sustainable,' but in Japanese, the full noun '持続可能性' is used more often in formal contexts.

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) The Brundtland Report (Our Common Future) The concept of 'Satoyama' in Japanese ecology.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Environmental Policy

資源の持続可能性
持続可能な社会の実現
地球の持続可能性
持続可能性を損なう開発

Corporate Business

持続可能性を重視した経営
持続可能性報告書の発行
ビジネスの持続可能性
持続可能性指標の導入

Agriculture/Food

持続可能な農業
食料システムの持続可能性
持続可能な水産物
持続可能性を考慮した食材

Urban Planning

都市の持続可能性
持続可能な交通システム
持続可能性の高い建築
インフラの持続可能性

Education

持続可能性教育
持続可能性への意識向上
次世代の持続可能性
持続可能性という概念

Conversation Starters

"環境の持続可能性について、どう思いますか？ (What do you think about environmental sustainability?)"

"あなたの会社では、持続可能性をどう考えていますか？ (How does your company view sustainability?)"

"持続可能な生活を送るために、何をしていますか？ (What are you doing to live a sustainable life?)"

"日本のSDGsと持続可能性への取り組みはどうですか？ (How are Japan's efforts toward SDGs and sustainability?)"

"持続可能性を優先すると、経済は成長しますか？ (If we prioritize sustainability, will the economy grow?)"

Journal Prompts

今日の生活の中で、持続可能性を意識した行動はありましたか？ (Was there any action today where you were conscious of sustainability?)

100年後の地球の持続可能性について、あなたの考えを書いてください。 (Write your thoughts on the sustainability of the Earth 100 years from now.)

持続可能な社会を作るために、最も重要なことは何だと思いますか？ (What do you think is the most important thing to create a sustainable society?)

あなたの仕事や勉強は、持続可能性にどう関わっていますか？ (How is your work or study related to sustainability?)

持続可能性を重視する企業を応援したいと思いますか？その理由は？ (Do you want to support companies that prioritize sustainability? Why?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not exactly. '持続可能性' is the concept (sustainability), while SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) are specific targets set by the UN to achieve it. In Japan, they are almost always mentioned together.

Yes, you can say '持続可能な食生活' (a sustainable diet), meaning a diet that is healthy for you and the planet in the long run. It sounds quite formal.

In news and academic writing, '持続可能性' is more common. In fashion, TV commercials, and trendy magazines, 'サステナビリティ' is very popular. Use the kanji version to sound more serious.

It is 続. It has the 'thread' radical (糸) on the left and 'sell' (売) on the right. Think of a thread that keeps going.

It is rarely used for personal relationships. For those, people use 'nagaku tsuzuku' (last long) or 'antei shita kankei' (stable relationship). Using 'jizoku kanōsei' for a boyfriend/girlfriend would sound like a business joke.

'Jizoku kanō' is the adjective (sustainable). 'Jizoku kanōsei' is the noun (sustainability). Use the one that fits your sentence structure.

There isn't a single word, but you could use 'jizoku funō' (impossible to sustain) or 'hi-jizokuteki' (non-sustainable).

Yes, it is common in the reading sections of N2 and N1 levels, especially in essays about the environment or society.

It is a long 'o'. In hiragana, it's written かのう. You should hold the 'o' sound for two beats.

Mostly, but 'jizoku' has a nuance of 'maintaining' a state. If you just 'continue' walking, you use 'aruki-tsuzukeru'. 'Jizoku' is more for abstract states like 'peace' or 'growth'.