Translation and Meaning of: 情け - nasake

The Japanese word 情け (nasake) carries a deep and culturally rich meaning, often translated as "comion" or "pity." If you are studying Japanese or are simply curious about this expression, understanding its usage and context can open doors to a more authentic understanding of the language and Japanese mindset. In this article, we will explore the meaning of 情け, its origin, how it is perceived in Japan, and tips for memorizing it effectively.

Meaning and use of 情け (nasake)

情け is a word that expresses a feeling of kindness, empathy, or mercy towards others. It can be used in situations where someone shows comion for a person in difficulty, but it also appears in broader contexts, such as in Japanese literature and cinema. Unlike simple "pity," 情け carries a nuance of action — it often implies helping or alleviating the suffering of others.

A common example is the expression 情けは人のためならず (nasake wa hito no tame narazu), a proverb that means "comion does not only benefit others," suggesting that being kind also brings benefits to the one who practices it. This type of usage shows how the word is connected to Japanese cultural values, such as reciprocity and social harmony.

Origin and writing in kanji

The word 情け is composed of the kanji 情 (jō), which means "emotion" or "feeling", and the suffix け (ke), which often indicates a state or condition. Together, they form a term that reflects an active feeling towards others. It is interesting to note that the same kanji appears in other words such as 感情 (kanjō – emotion) and 愛情 (aijō – affectionate love), showing its connection to deep affections.

Although it is an ancient word, 情け is still used in modern Japanese, especially in formal or literary contexts. In everyday life, Japanese people may prefer simpler like 優しさ (yasashisa – kindness), but 情け maintains its place in fixed expressions and moral teachings.

Tips for memorizing and using 情け

An effective way to solidify 情け is to associate it with real situations or stories. For example, many traditional Japanese tales, like those of Miyamoto Musashi, feature characters who demonstrate 情け in decisive moments. Watching Japanese dramas or films that address humanitarian themes can also help internalize the term naturally.

Another tip is to practice with short phrases, such as 情けをかける (nasake o kakeru – "to have comion for someone"). Repeating this type of construction in various contexts makes it easier to memorize and use the word correctly. If you use applications like Anki, creating flashcards with real examples can be a great strategy to reinforce vocabulary.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 哀れみ (awaremi) - Comion; a feeling of sorrow for someone in difficulties.
• 怜悯 (reimotsu) - Comion; reflection on the suffering of others, often associated with empathy.
• 憐憫 (renbin) - Comion; a type of feeling for the pain of others, often used in more formal contexts.
• 慈悲 (jihi) - Comion; a feeling that includes the desire to alleviate the suffering of others.
• 慈愛 (jiai) - Benevolent love; a deep and kind affection towards others.