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B1 verb #2,500 most common 12 min read

気にする

ki ni suru
Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 気にする in 30 Seconds
Explanation 気にする in your Level:
At the A1 level, beginners are just starting to build their foundational vocabulary and grasp the basic sentence structures of the Japanese language. While 気にする (ki ni suru) might seem a bit complex due to its idiomatic nature combining a noun and a verb, it is incredibly useful to introduce early on, primarily in its negative, fixed-phrase form: 気にしないで (ki ni shinaide). At this stage, learners do not need to fully understand the deep grammatical mechanics of transitive verbs or the philosophical concept of 'ki' (spirit/mind). Instead, they should memorize the phrase as a holistic chunk of language that means 'Please don't worry' or 'Never mind.' This is essential for basic social survival in Japanese. When an A1 learner accidentally bumps into someone, mispronounces a word, or arrives a minute late, hearing or saying 'ki ni shinaide' instantly diffuses the tension. The focus here is entirely on practical, immediate communication. Teachers should encourage students to practice this phrase in role-play scenarios, such as dropping a pencil or forgetting a textbook. Furthermore, recognizing the basic dictionary form can help learners when they encounter it in simple reading materials or anime, even if they are not yet expected to conjugate it actively. The goal at the A1 level is exposure and building confidence in handling minor social hiccups. By treating the phrase as a simple, polite reaction, learners begin to internalize the rhythm and empathetic nature of Japanese conversational etiquette, setting a strong foundation for more complex emotional expressions in later stages of their language learning journey. They will learn that Japanese relies heavily on these set phrases to maintain harmony and politeness in everyday interactions.
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Moving to the A2 level, learners are expected to expand their understanding of 気にする beyond just a memorized set phrase. At this stage, they begin to explore the basic conjugations of Group 3 verbs, meaning they can start using the phrase in different tenses and formalities. They learn to say 気にします (ki ni shimasu) for polite present/future, 気にしません (ki ni shimasen) for polite negative, and the past tense forms. This allows them to construct simple sentences about their own feelings and the feelings of others. For example, an A2 learner can now say '私はテストを気にします' (I worry about the test) or '彼は天気を気にしません' (He doesn't care about the weather). The introduction of the object particle を (wo) is crucial here. Learners must practice attaching 'wo' to the noun that is the source of the worry, solidifying their understanding of basic transitive sentence structures. This is also the perfect time to introduce simple adverbs of degree, such as あまり (amari, not much) paired with the negative form, or とても (totemo, very much) with the positive form. This adds a layer of nuance, allowing learners to express exactly how much they care about something. While they might still occasionally confuse it with the intransitive 気になる, guided practice and repetitive exercises focusing on the 'wo' particle will help cement the correct usage. At the A2 level, the phrase transitions from a mere survival tool to a genuine means of self-expression, enabling learners to participate in basic conversations about their daily concerns, preferences, and emotional reactions to everyday events.
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At the B1 level, which is the core intermediate stage, learners achieve a comprehensive understanding of 気にする and its place within the broader ecosystem of Japanese emotional vocabulary. This is the level where the distinction between the transitive 気にする (to actively worry about) and the intransitive 気になる (to naturally be on one's mind) must be thoroughly mastered. B1 learners are expected to use the progressive form 気にしている (ki ni shite iru) to describe ongoing states of concern, which is highly common in natural conversation. They can articulate complex sentences explaining *why* they are worried, using conjunctions like から (kara) or ので (node). For instance, '明日大事な会議があるので、準備を気にしています' (Because there is an important meeting tomorrow, I am worrying about the preparations). Furthermore, B1 learners start to encounter the phrase in more diverse contexts, such as reading intermediate texts, watching dramas without subtitles, and engaging in deeper conversations about social issues or personal insecurities. They learn to modify nouns with the phrase, creating relative clauses like '気にする人' (a person who worries). This level also demands an understanding of the cultural weight of the phrase—how Japanese society values harmony and how 'worrying about others' perceptions' is a common cultural trait. Learners should practice giving advice, using forms like '気にしないほうがいいですよ' (It's better not to worry about it). By the end of the B1 stage, the phrase should feel entirely natural, and learners should be able to deploy it accurately, distinguishing it from synonyms like 心配する (shinpai suru) based on context and the subjective nature of the concern.
As learners reach the B2 level, their use of 気にする becomes highly nuanced, flexible, and integrated into complex grammatical structures. At this upper-intermediate stage, learners are not just stating facts about their worries; they are analyzing them, discussing hypothetical situations, and using the phrase in professional or formal environments. They master the use of conditional forms, such as '気にすれば気にするほど、疲れる' (The more you worry about it, the more tired you get), demonstrating a sophisticated command of Japanese syntax. B2 learners also become adept at using the passive and causative forms, although these are less common with this specific idiom, they understand the theoretical application. More importantly, they learn to navigate the subtle registers of politeness. They know that while '気にしないで' is fine for colleagues, they must use 'お気になさらないでください' (Please do not concern yourself) when speaking to a client or a superior. This mastery of keigo (honorific language) in relation to emotional expressions is a hallmark of B2 proficiency. Furthermore, learners at this level can comprehend and utilize the phrase in abstract discussions, such as debating the psychological impact of social media ('若者はSNSの 'いいね' の数を気にしすぎる傾向がある' - Young people tend to worry too much about the number of likes on social media). They can seamlessly switch between synonyms like 懸念する or 悩む depending on the exact shade of meaning required. The phrase is no longer just a vocabulary word; it is a versatile tool for advanced communication, persuasion, and empathetic engagement in complex social dynamics.
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At the C1 level, advanced learners use 気にする with near-native fluency, embedding it effortlessly into long, complex, and highly structured discourse. They possess a deep, intuitive understanding of the cultural and psychological implications of the phrase. C1 learners can engage in academic, professional, and philosophical discussions where the concept of 'ki' and social awareness are central themes. They use the phrase in conjunction with advanced grammar patterns, such as '〜を気にするあまり、〜してしまった' (Because I worried too much about X, I ended up doing Y), which expresses a negative consequence resulting from excessive concern. They are entirely comfortable with idiomatic variations and colloquial abbreviations found in fast-paced native speech. At this level, learners can read literature or opinion pieces where the author's subtle use of the phrase reveals deep character flaws or societal critiques. They can write persuasive essays or professional reports discussing public concerns, seamlessly transitioning between the subjective '気にする' and the objective, formal '懸念する' as the register demands. Furthermore, C1 learners understand the unspoken implications when a native speaker uses the phrase; they can read between the lines to detect passive-aggressiveness, genuine anxiety, or polite deflection. Their ability to comfort others transcends basic phrases, allowing them to offer profound, context-specific reassurance using a rich vocabulary of empathy. Mastery at the C1 level means the learner does not even translate the phrase in their head; they feel the exact emotional weight of 'ki ni suru' and deploy it with absolute precision in any conceivable situation.
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Finally, at the C2 level, mastery of 気にする implies a completely native-like understanding and application of the phrase in all its forms, contexts, and cultural resonances. A C2 learner manipulates the language with artistic and rhetorical flair. They can play with the phrase, using it sarcastically, ironically, or poetically. They understand the historical and etymological roots of the word 'ki' and how it shapes the Japanese worldview, allowing them to engage in meta-linguistic discussions about the language itself. In professional settings, a C2 speaker can navigate the most delicate negotiations, using the phrase to subtly acknowledge a counterpart's concerns without conceding a point, employing the highest levels of sonkeigo (respectful language) and kenjougo (humble language) flawlessly. They can instantly comprehend obscure regional dialects or archaic uses of the phrase in classical literature or historical dramas. Their writing is indistinguishable from an educated native speaker, whether they are drafting a formal apology letter, a nuanced psychological analysis, or a creative story. At this pinnacle of language acquisition, the learner's use of 気にする is entirely automatic. They intuitively grasp the exact threshold where natural concern crosses into pathological anxiety within the Japanese cultural context, and they can articulate this boundary with eloquence. The phrase is fully integrated into their cognitive framework, representing not just a translation of 'to worry,' but a profound internalization of Japanese emotional intelligence and social grace.
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

気にする in 30 Seconds

  • Means to actively worry about or mind something.
  • Often used in the negative '気にしないで' (Don't worry).
  • Takes the object particle を (wo), unlike 気になる.
  • Crucial for maintaining politeness and social harmony.
The Japanese phrase 気にする (ki ni suru) is a fundamental expression that translates to caring about, worrying about, or being concerned with something in a very active, conscious manner. Understanding this phrase is absolutely essential for anyone looking to achieve fluency in Japanese, as it touches upon deep cultural nuances regarding social harmony, personal anxiety, and interpersonal relationships. When you use this phrase, you are indicating that a particular thought, comment, event, or situation is occupying your mind and causing a degree of emotional or psychological weight. It is not merely a passing thought; rather, it is a sustained focus that often brings about worry or stress. To fully grasp the depth of this expression, one must look at its components. The word 気 (ki) refers to spirit, mind, energy, or mood, while にする (ni suru) means to make it into or to decide on. Therefore, the literal translation is closer to making something a matter of the mind. This active engagement is what separates it from similar phrases. In Japanese society, where reading the atmosphere and maintaining group harmony are paramount, individuals frequently find themselves worrying about how their actions or words are perceived by others. This hyper-awareness is perfectly encapsulated by the verb under discussion.

他人の目をあまり気にする必要はありません。

Active Concern
The phrase implies an active, often burdensome, focus on a specific issue or problem.
Furthermore, the psychological impact of constantly worrying can be significant, which is why the negative imperative form is so commonly used to reassure friends, colleagues, and family members. When someone makes a mistake, telling them not to worry is a standard polite response that helps to immediately de-escalate any feelings of guilt or embarrassment.

小さなミスを気にするな。

Social Lubricant
Telling someone not to worry acts as a crucial social lubricant in Japanese culture.
It is also important to note that this verb is transitive, meaning it takes a direct object marked by the particle を (wo). You are actively doing the worrying directed at a specific target. This grammatical structure highlights the intentionality behind the action, even if the worry itself feels involuntary.

彼女は体重を気にするタイプです。

In many contexts, the phrase can also be translated as to mind or to pay attention to. For example, if you are asking someone if they mind if you open a window, you might use a variation of this phrase. The versatility of the expression makes it a staple in both casual and formal conversations.

年齢を気にするのはやめましょう。

Versatility
The phrase can be adapted to express everything from trivial concerns to deep anxieties.
As you continue to study Japanese, you will notice that the concept of ki permeates the language, and mastering this specific verb will unlock a deeper understanding of how Japanese people express their inner emotional landscapes.

そんなこと、誰も気にするわけがない。

Ultimately, the goal is to reach a point where you can use the phrase naturally to articulate your own feelings and to empathize with the worries of those around you, thereby building stronger, more authentic connections with native speakers.
Learning how to use 気にする (ki ni suru) correctly involves understanding its conjugations, the particles it pairs with, and the various contexts in which it is appropriate. Because it is a Group 3 (irregular) verb based on する (suru), its conjugation follows the standard rules for suru verbs. The dictionary form is used in casual contexts or when modifying nouns. The polite form is 気にします (ki ni shimasu), which is appropriate for workplace environments or when speaking to acquaintances. The negative form, 気にしない (ki ni shinai) or 気にしません (ki ni shimasen), is incredibly common, often used to state that one does not care about or is not bothered by something.

私は他人の意見を気にすることはありません。

Conjugation Basics
Mastering the irregular conjugations of the base verb is the first step to using this phrase correctly.
The te-form, 気にして (ki ni shite), is frequently combined with いる (iru) to express an ongoing state of worry or concern: 気にしている (ki ni shite iru). This is the form you use when you want to say that something is currently bothering you or has been on your mind for a while. When giving advice or commands, the negative imperative form 気にしないで (ki ni shinaide) or the more casual 気にするな (ki ni suru na) are essential tools for reassuring others.

失敗を気にするな、次があるさ。

Ongoing State
Use the progressive form to indicate that a worry is persistent and currently affecting you.
Grammatically, the target of the concern is marked by the object particle を (wo). For example, 成績を気にする (seiseki wo ki ni suru) means to worry about one's grades. It is crucial not to confuse this with the subject particle が (ga), which is used with the intransitive counterpart 気になる (ki ni naru). Mixing up these particles is a common pitfall for learners, but paying close attention to whether the action is active (suru) or passive/spontaneous (naru) will help clarify the usage.

彼はいつも髪型を気にする。

In addition to basic conjugations, the phrase can be modified by adverbs to indicate the degree of concern. Words like あまり (amari, not much), 全く (mattaku, not at all), or すごく (sugoku, very much) frequently precede the phrase. For instance, 全く気にしない (mattaku ki ni shinai) means to not care at all, demonstrating complete indifference.

細かいことを気にすると疲れますよ。

Adverbial Modification
Enhance your sentences by adding adverbs that specify exactly how much you do or do not care.
By practicing these various forms and combinations, learners can develop a highly nuanced ability to express their emotional states and respond empathetically to the emotional states of others, which is a hallmark of advanced Japanese proficiency.

親は子供の将来を気にするものです。

Continuous exposure to native materials will further solidify your understanding of when and how to deploy this versatile and culturally significant expression in your everyday conversations.
You will frequently encounter the phrase 気にする (ki ni suru) in a wide variety of contexts, ranging from casual conversations among friends to formal workplace interactions, and extensively throughout Japanese pop culture, including anime, manga, and television dramas. Because worrying and caring about social perception are universal human experiences heavily emphasized in Japanese culture, the phrase is ubiquitous. In casual settings, friends often use it to comfort one another. If someone spills a drink or arrives a few minutes late, the immediate response is often 気にしないで (ki ni shinaide), meaning don't worry about it. This usage is so common that it almost functions as a reflex, serving to maintain harmony and prevent the other person from feeling undue guilt.

遅刻したこと、あまり気にするなよ。

Casual Comfort
Friends use the negative form constantly to reassure each other and maintain a relaxed atmosphere.
In the workplace, the phrase takes on a slightly different tone. Employees might use the polite form to express concern over a project's details or a client's reaction. For example, a manager might say お客様の反応を気にしています (okyakusama no hannou wo ki ni shite imasu), meaning they are concerned about the customer's reaction. It demonstrates diligence and a conscientious attitude toward one's responsibilities.

上司は常に売上を気にする。

Professional Diligence
In business, expressing concern can show that you are taking your duties seriously and paying attention to details.
Furthermore, in romantic relationships or family dynamics, the phrase is used to discuss insecurities or protective feelings. A parent might worry about their child's health, or a partner might be self-conscious about their appearance. In these intimate settings, the phrase allows individuals to articulate their vulnerabilities.

彼女は自分の欠点をひどく気にする。

In media, particularly in shounen anime or sports dramas, you will often hear characters shouting 気にするな！ (ki ni suru na!) to a teammate who has just made an error. It is a powerful phrase of encouragement, urging the person to move past the mistake and focus on the present moment.

失点を気にするな、次を取り返せ！

Media Tropes
The phrase is a staple in dramatic narratives, used to build resilience and teamwork among characters.
Finally, you will hear it in internal monologues or self-reflections, where a person acknowledges their own tendency to overthink. People might describe themselves as someone who worries too much, using the phrase to label their personality trait.

私はどうでもいいことを気にする性格だ。

By paying attention to these diverse contexts, learners can appreciate the incredible flexibility of the expression and learn to apply it appropriately across different social spheres.
Learners of Japanese often make several common mistakes when attempting to use 気にする (ki ni suru), primarily due to its similarity to other phrases containing the word 気 (ki) and the nuances of transitive versus intransitive verbs. The most frequent and significant error is confusing it with 気になる (ki ni naru). While both translate roughly to caring about or being concerned with, their grammatical structures and underlying meanings are fundamentally different. 気にする is a transitive verb that requires the object particle を (wo) and implies an active, conscious effort to worry about or focus on something. You are choosing, even if involuntarily, to direct your mental energy toward the object.

彼はいつも周りの評価を気にする。

Transitive Action
Remember that you actively do the worrying to the object marked by wo.
Conversely, 気になる is an intransitive verb that takes the subject particle が (ga). It implies a spontaneous or natural arising of interest or concern. Something catches your attention without your active effort. Saying 成績が気になる (seiseki ga ki ni naru) means your grades are weighing on your mind naturally, whereas 成績を気にする (seiseki wo ki ni suru) means you are actively fretting over them. Mixing up these particles and verbs sounds unnatural to native speakers.

間違えて「が」を使って気にする人が多い。

Particle Confusion
Using ga with the transitive form is a grammatical error that changes the sentence's fundamental structure.
Another common mistake is confusing the phrase with 気をつける (ki wo tsukeru), which means to be careful or to take care. While both involve the mind (ki), the latter is used for caution and safety, not for anxiety or concern. You would tell someone to 気をつけて (ki wo tsukete) when they are driving in the rain, but you would tell them 気にしないで (ki ni shinaide) if they accidentally stepped on your shoe.

安全を気にするのと、気をつけるのは違う。

Additionally, learners sometimes overuse the phrase when a more specific verb like 心配する (shinpai suru, to worry) or 悩む (nayamu, to agonize/trouble over) would be more appropriate. While there is overlap, 心配する is often used for objective concerns about safety or future outcomes, whereas the target phrase is more about subjective, psychological bother or social anxiety.

病気のことは、気にするより心配するべきだ。

Vocabulary Overlap
Relying too heavily on one phrase can limit your expressive range; learn the subtle differences between synonyms.
Finally, learners may struggle with the appropriate level of politeness. Using the casual imperative 気にするな (ki ni suru na) with a superior or someone older is highly inappropriate and can be perceived as rude. It is crucial to use the polite negative form, 気になさらないでください (ki ni nasaranaide kudasai), in formal situations.

目上の人には気にするなと言ってはいけない。

By being aware of these common pitfalls, learners can refine their usage and communicate more accurately and respectfully.
There are numerous similar words and synonyms to 気にする (ki ni suru) in the Japanese language, each carrying its own subtle nuances and specific use cases. Expanding your vocabulary to include these alternatives will significantly enhance your ability to express complex emotional states and precise levels of concern. As previously discussed, the most closely related phrase is 気になる (ki ni naru), which means to be on one's mind or to naturally catch one's attention. While the target phrase implies active worrying, the intransitive counterpart implies a passive state of being bothered or intrigued.

彼らは似た言葉の違いを気にする。

Passive vs Active
Understanding the difference between active concern and passive intrigue is key to mastering these synonyms.
Another highly common synonym is 心配する (shinpai suru), which translates directly to to worry or to be anxious. This word is generally used for more serious, objective concerns, such as worrying about someone's health, a natural disaster, or a major life event. In contrast, the target phrase is often used for more subjective, trivial, or socially oriented concerns, such as worrying about what someone thinks of your outfit.

健康を気にするあまり、心配性になった。

Severity of Concern
Choose your vocabulary based on the gravity of the situation; save shinpai for serious matters.
For deeper, more agonizing mental distress, the verb 悩む (nayamu) is appropriate. This means to be troubled, to agonize, or to be deeply conflicted about a decision or problem. If you are losing sleep over a major life choice, you are nayamu-ing, not just actively caring about it.

進路を気にするだけでなく、深く悩んでいる。

In formal or written contexts, you might encounter words like 懸念する (kenen suru) or 憂慮する (yuuryo suru), both of which mean to fear or to be concerned about, usually in a broader, societal, or business context. A politician might express kenen about the economy, whereas an individual would not typically use such formal language for personal matters.

経済の動向を気にする専門家が多い。

Formal Register
Academic and news contexts require elevated vocabulary that conveys professional concern.
Lastly, the verb 構う (kamau), often used in the negative as 構わない (kamawanai), means to mind or to care in the sense of being bothered. It is frequently used interchangeably with the negative form of our target phrase when giving permission or showing indifference, as in 'I don't mind.'

服装を気にする必要はない、構わないよ。

By studying these related terms, learners can build a robust and nuanced emotional vocabulary, allowing for highly precise and contextually appropriate communication in Japanese.

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

Verb-te form + iru (Ongoing state: 気にしている)

Negative imperative (しないで / するな)

Noun modification (気にする人)

〜すぎる (Overdoing: 気にしすぎる)

〜ば〜ほど (Conditional: 気にすれば気にするほど)

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Examples by Level

1

気にしないでください。

Please don't worry about it.

Negative te-form + kudasai for polite requests.

2

私は気にしません。

I don't mind.

Polite negative form of suru.

3

それを気にしますか？

Do you care about that?

Polite question form.

4

あまり気にしないで。

Don't worry about it too much.

Adverb 'amari' used with negative imperative.

5

彼は気にします。

He worries.

Basic polite present tense.

6

気にしないで、大丈夫です。

Don't worry, it's okay.

Combining the phrase with 'daijoubu' for extra reassurance.

7

時間を気にします。

I worry about the time.

Using the object particle 'wo'.

8

気にしないでね。

Don't worry, okay?

Adding the sentence-ending particle 'ne' for softness.

1

テストの点数を気にしています。

I am worrying about my test score.

Te-form + iru for ongoing state.

2

彼女はいつも髪型を気にします。

She always cares about her hairstyle.

Using the adverb 'itsumo' (always).

3

他人の意見を気にしないでください。

Please don't worry about other people's opinions.

Complex noun phrase 'tanin no iken' as the object.

4

昨日のミスをまだ気にしていますか？

Are you still worrying about yesterday's mistake?

Past time marker 'kinou' and adverb 'mada' (still).

5

少し気にしました。

I worried a little bit.

Polite past tense with adverb 'sukoshi'.

6

お金のことを気にしないで、楽しんでください。

Don't worry about money, please enjoy yourself.

Using 'no koto' to generalize the object.

7

誰も気にしないよ。

Nobody cares.

Pronoun 'daremo' with negative verb.

8

カロリーを気にして、サラダを食べます。

Caring about calories, I eat salad.

Te-form used to connect sequential actions/reasons.

1

周りの目を気にするあまり、自分の意見が言えない。

Because I worry too much about how others see me, I can't express my own opinions.

Grammar pattern '〜amari' (worrying so much that...).

2

細かいことを気にしすぎるのは、あなたの悪い癖です。

Worrying too much about trivial things is your bad habit.

Verb stem + sugiru (to do too much) nominalized with 'no'.

3

年齢を気にせずに、新しいことに挑戦したい。

I want to challenge new things without worrying about my age.

Negative continuous form '〜zu ni' (without doing).

4

親はいつも子供の将来を気にするものです。

Parents naturally always worry about their children's future.

Grammar pattern '〜mono da' expressing a general truth.

5

そんなこと、気にする必要はありませんよ。

There is no need to worry about such a thing.

Noun modification 'ki ni suru hitsuyou' (need to worry).

6

彼は健康を気にして、タバコをやめました。

Concerned about his health, he quit smoking.

Te-form indicating reason/cause.

7

気にすれば気にするほど、緊張してしまいます。

The more I worry about it, the more nervous I get.

Conditional pattern '〜ba 〜hodo' (the more... the more...).

8

服装を気にする人が多いですね。

There are many people who care about their clothes, aren't there?

Relative clause modifying 'hito'.

1

世間体を気にするあまり、彼は本当の夢を諦めてしまった。

Caring too much about public appearance, he gave up on his true dream.

Advanced vocabulary 'sekentei' (public appearance) with 'amari'.

2

上司の顔色ばかり気にしていては、良い仕事はできない。

If you are only worrying about your boss's mood, you cannot do good work.

Pattern '〜te ite wa' (if you keep doing...).

3

どうぞお気になさらないでください。

Please do not concern yourself. (Very polite)

Sonkeigo (respectful language) form 'o-ki ni nasaranai'.

4

彼は些細なミスを気にするきらいがある。

He has a tendency to worry about trivial mistakes.

Grammar pattern '〜kirai ga aru' (has a bad tendency to).

5

他人にどう思われるかを気にするのは、人間の性だ。

It is human nature to worry about what others think of you.

Embedded question 'dou omowareru ka' as the object.

6

コストを気にする一方で、品質も維持しなければならない。

While worrying about costs, we must also maintain quality.

Conjunction '〜ippou de' (on the other hand / while).

7

彼女は全く気にする素振りも見せなかった。

She didn't show the slightest sign of caring.

8

気にしなくて済むなら、それに越したことはない。

If you can get by without worrying, nothing is better than that.

Pattern '〜ni koshita koto wa nai' (nothing is better than).

1

コンプライアンスを気にするあまり、企業の動きが鈍化している。

Due to excessive concern over compliance, corporate agility is slowing down.

Professional context using 'donka suru' (to slow down).

2

周囲の思惑を気にしていては、革新的なアイデアは生まれない。

If you worry about the ulterior motives of those around you, innovative ideas will not be born.

Advanced vocabulary 'omowaku' (ulterior motives/expectations).

3

彼がそれを気にするのも無理はない。

It is entirely reasonable that he worries about that.

Pattern '〜no mo muri wa nai' (it's no wonder that).

4

些末な事象を気にするより、大局を見極めるべきだ。

Rather than worrying about trivial phenomena, one should assess the big picture.

Advanced vocabulary 'samatsu' (trivial) and 'taikyoku' (big picture).

5

あの政治家は世論の動向を異常なほど気にしている。

That politician is abnormally concerned about the trends in public opinion.

Adverbial phrase 'ijou na hodo' (to an abnormal extent).

6

体裁を気にするがゆえに、彼は助けを求められなかった。

Because he cared about appearances, he could not ask for help.

Classical grammar pattern '〜ga yue ni' (because of).

7

気に留めるほどの事ではないと、彼は一蹴した。

He brushed it off, saying it wasn't something worth worrying about.

Using the related idiom 'ki ni tomeru' and 'isshuu suru' (to reject flatly).

8

リスクを気にするあまり、機会損失を招いている。

Worrying too much about risk is inviting opportunity loss.

Business terminology 'kikai sonshitsu' (opportunity loss).

1

他者の評価を気にするという呪縛から解き放たれた時、真の自由を得る。

When one is freed from the curse of worrying about others' evaluations, one attains true freedom.

Literary vocabulary 'jubaku' (curse/spell) and 'tokihanatareru' (to be freed).

2

些細な言葉の綾を気にしていては、円滑なコミュニケーションは望むべくもない。

If one worries about trivial figures of speech, smooth communication cannot possibly be hoped for.

Pattern '〜nozomu beku mo nai' (cannot possibly hope for).

3

御社のご意向を重々気にかけておりますゆえ、何卒ご安心ください。

We are deeply concerned with your esteemed company's intentions, so please rest assured.

Extremely formal business keigo using 'ki ni kakeru' and 'yue'.

4

自己保身を気にするあまりの姑息な手段と言わざるを得ない。

I cannot help but call it an underhanded method born of excessive concern for self-preservation.

Advanced vocabulary 'jiko hoshin' (self-preservation) and 'kosoku' (underhanded).

5

微に入り細を穿つが如く気にする彼の性格が、この傑作を生んだのだ。

His personality, which worries about details as if penetrating the microscopic, is what birthed this masterpiece.

Idiom 'bi ni iri sai wo ugatsu' (to go into minute details).

6

世の無常を気にするより、今この瞬間の美を愛でようではないか。

Rather than worrying about the impermanence of the world, let us admire the beauty of this very moment.

Literary and philosophical tone using 'mujou' (impermanence).

7

一挙手一投足を気にされる重圧は、筆舌に尽くしがたい。

The heavy pressure of having one's every single move worried about is beyond description.

Idiom 'hitsuzetsu ni tsukushigatai' (indescribable).

8

些事に気を取られ本質を見失う愚を犯さぬよう、常に留意すべきだ。

One must always be mindful not to commit the folly of losing sight of the essence by worrying about trivialities.

Highly formal/literary structure using 'gu wo okasanu you'.

Common Collocations

周りの目を気にする
細かいことを気にする
成績を気にする
年齢を気にする
他人の評価を気にする
服装を気にする
健康を気にする
時間を気にする
世間体を気にする
カロリーを気にする

Common Phrases

気にしないで
気にするな
気にすることはない
気にしすぎ
全く気にしない
あまり気にしない
気にしている
気にするタイプ
気にする必要はない
気にしても仕方ない

Often Confused With

気にする vs 気になる

気にする vs 気をつける

気にする vs 心配する

Idioms & Expressions

"気に病む"
"気をもむ"
"気が気でない"
"気を回す"
"気を遣う"
"気を落とす"
"気を張る"
"気を揉む"
"気を配る"
"気を悪くする"

Easily Confused

気にする vs

気にする vs

気にする vs

気にする vs

気にする vs

Sentence Patterns

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How to Use It

nuance

Implies a subjective, psychological burden rather than objective danger.

frequency

Extremely high in daily conversation, especially the negative imperative.

colloquialisms

Often pronounced quickly as 'kinishinaide'.

Common Mistakes
  • Using the subject particle が (ga) instead of the object particle を (wo). (e.g., Saying 成績が気にする instead of 成績を気にする).
  • Confusing it with 気になる (ki ni naru), which means something naturally catches your attention.
  • Using the casual imperative 気にするな (ki ni suru na) with superiors or strangers, which is highly rude.
  • Using it for serious, life-threatening situations where 心配する (shinpai suru) would be more appropriate.
  • Forgetting to use the progressive form 気にしている (ki ni shite iru) when describing an ongoing state of worry.

Tips

Always Check Your Particle

The biggest mistake learners make is using が (ga) instead of を (wo). Remember that 気にする is an active choice (even if it feels involuntary). You actively 'do' the worrying to the object. Therefore, always use [Noun] を 気にする.

The Magic of 気にしないで

If you only remember one thing, memorize '気にしないで' (ki ni shinaide). It is the ultimate social band-aid in Japan. Use it whenever someone apologizes for a minor mistake, bumps into you, or seems embarrassed. It instantly makes you sound natural and empathetic.

Differentiate from 心配する

Don't use 気にする for life-or-death situations. If your friend is in the hospital, use 心配する (shinpai suru). Use 気にする for social anxieties, appearances, minor mistakes, or trivial matters. Mixing them up can make you sound insensitive.

Anime Catchphrase

If you watch sports anime, listen for '気にするな！' (ki ni suru na!). Captains yell this to teammates who miss a shot or make an error. It translates to 'Don't sweat it!' or 'Shake it off!' It's a great way to hear the casual imperative in action.

Use the Te-Iru Form for States

Worrying is usually a continuous feeling. Therefore, you will often hear '気にしている' (ki ni shite iru) rather than just '気にする'. Use the te-iru form to describe something that is currently bothering you or has been on your mind for a while.

Master the Keigo Version

If you work in Japan, you must learn 'お気になさらないでください' (o-ki ni nasaranaide kudasai). This is the sonkeigo (respectful) version of 'don't worry'. Using this with clients or bosses will make a fantastic impression and show your mastery of business Japanese.

Describing Personality

You can use the phrase to describe someone's personality. '彼は細かいことを気にする人だ' (He is a person who worries about small details). This is a very natural way to describe someone who is meticulous or overly anxious in written Japanese.

The Cultural Weight

Understand that 'ki ni suru' is deeply tied to the Japanese concept of reading the room (kuuki wo yomu). People worry about how they are perceived to maintain harmony. Recognizing this cultural context will help you understand why the phrase is used so frequently.

Pair with Adverbs

Enhance your sentences by pairing the phrase with adverbs. '全く気にしない' (mattaku ki ni shinai - don't care at all) or 'あまり気にしない' (amari ki ni shinai - don't care much). This adds precision to your emotional expressions.

Avoid Double Negatives

Be careful when translating 'I don't mind not doing it'. The grammar can get tangled. Stick to simple structures first. '気にしない' simply means 'I don't care/mind'. Keep your sentences straightforward until you master the advanced conditional forms.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'ki' as a KEY. You use the KEY to lock your worries inside your mind (suru = to do). If you 'ki ni suru', you are actively locking worries in your head.

Word Origin

Native Japanese compound.

Cultural Context

Over-worrying (気にしすぎ) is common, so reassuring others is a daily necessity.

Use 気にしないで with friends, but お気になさらないでください with superiors.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"最近、何か気にしていることはありますか？ (Is there anything you are worrying about lately?)"

"他人の目を気にするタイプですか？ (Are you the type to worry about how others see you?)"

"健康のために気にしていることは何ですか？ (What do you care about for the sake of your health?)"

"失敗した時、すぐに気にしなくなりますか？ (When you make a mistake, do you stop worrying about it quickly?)"

"年齢を気にする必要はあると思いますか？ (Do you think there is a need to worry about age?)"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you worried too much about something trivial (細かいことを気にしすぎた経験).

Describe what you do to stop worrying when you feel anxious (気にしないようにする方法).

Discuss the difference between 'caring' and 'over-worrying' in your culture.

Write a letter to your past self telling them not to worry about a specific event.

List three things you care about regarding your health and why.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

気にする is a transitive verb that means you actively worry about or focus on something. It takes the object particle を (wo). For example, '成績を気にする' means you are actively fretting over your grades. 気になる is an intransitive verb meaning something naturally catches your attention or is on your mind. It takes the subject particle が (ga). For example, '成績が気になる' means your grades are naturally weighing on your mind.

The most common and natural way to say 'Don't worry about it' is 気にしないで (ki ni shinaide). This is appropriate for friends and casual acquaintances. If you need to be more polite, you can say 気にしないでください (ki ni shinaide kudasai). For very formal situations, such as speaking to a boss or a customer, use お気になさらないでください (o-ki ni nasaranaide kudasai). In very casual situations, especially among men, you might hear 気にするな (ki ni suru na).

While you can use 気にする for illness (e.g., 病気を気にする), it often sounds like you are just letting it bother you psychologically. For serious, objective concerns like health, safety, or major life events, the word 心配する (shinpai suru) is usually more appropriate. 心配する conveys a deeper sense of genuine anxiety for someone's well-being. 気にする is better suited for subjective worries like appearances, mistakes, or what others think.

It takes the particle を (wo) because 気にする is treated as a transitive verb phrase. The verb する (suru) means 'to do', and in this context, you are actively 'doing' the action of directing your mind (ki) toward an object. The object of your active concern must be marked with を. For example, '他人の目' (other people's eyes/opinions) is the direct object in '他人の目を気にする'.

It is a Group 3 verb (also known as an irregular verb). This is because it ends with the verb する (suru). Therefore, it follows all the conjugation rules of する. It becomes します (shimasu) in the polite form, しない (shinai) in the negative form, して (shite) in the te-form, and した (shita) in the past tense. Mastering the irregular conjugations of suru is key to using this phrase correctly.

To say you worry too much, you can use the verb suffix 〜すぎる (sugiru), which means 'to overdo'. Attach it to the stem of the verb (気にし). So, '気にしすぎる' (ki ni shi sugiru) means 'to worry too much'. You can also say '私は気にしすぎるタイプです' (I am the type of person who worries too much) to describe your personality.

Yes, you can use it to ask if someone minds, though 気になる or 構う (kamau) are also common. For example, 'これ、気にしますか？' (Do you mind this? / Does this bother you?). However, a more natural way to ask for permission (e.g., 'Do you mind if I open the window?') usually involves the te-form + mo ii desu ka (開けてもいいですか) rather than using 気にする directly.

気にしている (ki ni shite iru) is the present progressive (te-form + iru) of the verb. It means 'I am currently worrying about' or 'It has been on my mind'. Because worrying is often an ongoing state rather than a single instantaneous action, this form is extremely common. For example, '昨日のミスをまだ気にしている' means 'I am still worrying about yesterday's mistake'.

Yes, it can be very rude if used with the wrong person. 気にするな (ki ni suru na) is the negative imperative (command) form. It is very direct and masculine. You should only use it with close friends, subordinates, or younger family members. Using it with a boss, a teacher, or a stranger is highly disrespectful. Always default to 気にしないでください in polite company.

In business, it is often used to show diligence or to apologize. A company might say '品質を常に気にしています' (We are always concerned with quality). When a client apologizes for a minor inconvenience, you would reply with the highly respectful 'どうぞお気になさらないでください' (Please do not concern yourself). It is a vital phrase for managing professional relationships and demonstrating empathy in the workplace.

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