Translation guide
The English phrase 'common sense' refers to practical judgment and everyday reasoning. In Japanese, it is often expressed with the noun 常識 (jōshiki), but the usage and nuance can differ. This guide covers how to express the idea of common sense naturally in Japanese.
Referring to practical wisdom, sound judgment, or what any reasonable person should know or do.
The standard translation for 'common sense'. It refers to knowledge, judgment, and behavior that is expected of all members of society. Often used in phrases like 常識がある (to have common sense) or 常識がない (to lack common sense).
He has common sense.
Doing something like that shows a lack of common sense.
Literally 'a matter of course' or 'something obvious'. Used to emphasize that something should be common knowledge or obvious to everyone.
It's common sense to greet people.
Similar to 当たり前のこと, meaning 'natural thing' or 'matter of course'. Often used in formal contexts.
It's common sense to follow the rules.
Describing someone or something as foolish, unreasonable, or lacking basic judgment.
Directly means 'lacks common sense'. Commonly used to criticize someone's behavior or thinking.
That person has no common sense, so it's troublesome.
Noun or na-adjective meaning 'lack of common sense', 'senselessness'. Stronger than 常識がない.
Means 'out of the ordinary' or 'beyond common sense'. Used when something deviates significantly from what is considered normal.
That proposal is beyond common sense.
Referring to something that everyone knows or should know.
Means 'general common sense' or 'common knowledge'. Often used in contexts like job hunting or social norms.
Job hunting requires common knowledge.
Literally 'something everyone knows'. A casual way to say something is common knowledge.
That's common knowledge.
Emphasizing the practical, sensible aspect of common sense.
Means 'good sense' or 'sound judgment'. More about moral or prudent decision-making than just social norms.
He made a sensible decision.
Refers to discretion, prudence, or the ability to distinguish right from wrong. Often used in the phrase 分別がある.
The literal translation 共通感覚 (kyōtsū kankaku) is a philosophical term and not used in everyday Japanese. Always use 常識 or related expressions.
常識 (jōshiki) is about social norms and what everyone is expected to know. 良識 (ryōshiki) is about personal good judgment and moral sense. Use 常識 for general common sense, and 良識 when emphasizing wisdom or prudence.
His behavior is senseless (lacks common sense).
大人なら分別があるべきだ。
Adults should have common sense (prudence).