Copyright © 2026 Kotomora. All Rights Reserved.
側近 (そっきん) Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Common word JLPT N1 Freq. Frequency Top 20,000 Meanings 1
noun
close aide ; close associate ; entourage
Refers to a person in a position of trust and proximity to a powerful figure, such as a political leader, executive, or historical lord. Often used in political and business contexts.
側そっ
近きん
と
し
て
長なが
年ねん
働はたら
い
て
き
た
。
He has worked for many years as a close associate of the company president.
Similar words 腹ふく 心しん 腹心 implies a deeply trusted confidant, often with a stronger emotional bond, while 側近 emphasizes physical proximity and official advisory role.
取と り 巻ま き 取り巻き can have a slightly negative nuance of sycophantic followers surrounding someone, whereas 側近 is neutral and denotes official or trusted aides.
Etymology Compound of 側 (そく, 'side') and 近 (きん, 'near'), referring to someone who is physically and positionally close to a person of power.
