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50+ Beautiful Words & Their Deep Meanings
Japanese is one of the most expressive languages in the world, with words that capture feelings, concepts, and moments that other languages need entire sentences to describe. Explore our curated collection of essential Japanese words.
Reason for being
Your life's purpose — the intersection of what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. The fundamental concept behind finding meaning in life.
Beauty in imperfection
The aesthetic of finding beauty in imperfection and transience. A crack in a tea cup isn't a flaw — it's part of its story and beauty.
Continuous improvement
The philosophy of small, daily improvements. Used in business and personal development — the idea that 1% better each day leads to massive transformation.
One time, one meeting
Treasure every encounter, for it will never recur. A reminder to be fully present in each moment and each interaction.
The pathos of things
A bittersweet awareness of impermanence — the gentle sadness that comes from knowing nothing lasts forever, like cherry blossoms falling.
Sunlight filtering through leaves
The dappled light that filters through tree canopy. There's no single English word for this — it captures a specific, beautiful moment in nature.
Golden repair
The art of repairing broken pottery with gold. A metaphor for embracing our flaws and finding strength in what was once broken.
These Japanese concepts aren't just vocabulary — they're tools for finding meaning in life. Many of them directly relate to the four circles of Ikigai.
Words like Natsukashii and Ureshii help you identify what truly brings you joy — the 'What You Love' circle of Ikigai.
Kaizen (continuous improvement) and Ganbaru (perseverance) connect to developing 'What You're Good At'.
Omoiyari (empathy), Kansha (gratitude), and Wa (harmony) relate to 'What the World Needs' — how you can contribute.
Understanding these concepts helps you find meaningful work that aligns with your values — 'What You Can Be Paid For'.
These Japanese concepts aren't just vocabulary — they're tools for finding meaning in life. Many of them directly relate to the four circles of Ikigai.
Discover Your Ikigai — Take the Free TestFree · 5 minutes · Instant results