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健気 (けなげ) Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Common word JLPT N1 Freq. Frequency Top 50,000 Meanings 1
na-adjective, noun
admirable ; commendable ; brave
Describes someone, often a child or a person in a weak position, who is doing their best in a difficult situation and evokes a feeling of respect mixed with pity. It carries a nuance of being moved by their effort and spirit.
I was touched by the sight of the small child earnestly helping out.
Written forms 健気けなげ Usage 54%
Standard kanji spelling; the only written form.
けなげ Usage 45%
ケナゲ Usage 2%
Kanji 健 healthy, health, strength Similar words 立りっ 派ぱ 立派 describes something or someone as splendid, fine, or admirable in a more objective and dignified sense, without the nuance of pity or vulnerability that 健気 carries.
勇ゆう 敢かん 勇敢 means brave or courageous in a straightforward, heroic way, often in the face of danger, while 健気 emphasizes a touching, earnest effort despite weakness or hardship.
Etymology The word 健気 originally meant 'healthy spirit' or 'vigorous nature', combining 健 (healthy, strong) and 気 (spirit, mind). Over time, it shifted to describe someone who shows a brave and admirable attitude despite being in a weak or difficult position.
