Translation guide
The feeling of obligation to do what is right or expected, often in social, professional, or moral contexts. Japanese expresses this through nouns, adjectives, and set phrases that emphasize responsibility, obligation, and social harmony.
Expressing a personal feeling of responsibility or moral obligation to act in a certain way.
The most direct translation for 'sense of duty,' referring to a feeling of obligation. Commonly used in both formal and everyday contexts.
彼は強い義務感からボランティアを続けている。
He continues volunteering out of a strong sense of duty.
Literally 'sense of responsibility.' Often overlaps with 'sense of duty' but emphasizes accountability for one's actions or role.
彼女は責任感が強いので、どんな仕事も最後までやり遂げる。
She has a strong sense of duty, so she sees every task through to the end.
To feel a sense of duty or obligation, often in social relationships. '義理' (giri) refers to a sense of duty or debt of gratitude, especially in Japanese culture.
彼には義理を感じているので、頼みを断れない。
I feel a sense of duty toward him, so I can't refuse his request.
Describing an action done because of obligation rather than personal desire.
Means 'out of a sense of duty.' Used to explain the motivation behind an action.
彼は義務感からその仕事を引き受けた。
He took on the job out of a sense of duty.
Doing something out of a sense of social obligation or duty, often reluctantly. Common in contexts like attending events or giving gifts.
義理で結婚式に出席した。
I attended the wedding out of a sense of duty.
Criticizing someone for not fulfilling their obligations.
Means 'lacking a sense of duty.' Used to point out insufficient commitment or responsibility.
彼は義務感が足りないから、いつも途中で投げ出す。
He lacks a sense of duty, so he always gives up halfway.
Means 'irresponsible.' Often used to describe someone who shirks their duties.
そんな無責任な態度は許されない。
Such an irresponsible attitude (lacking a sense of duty) is unacceptable.
Referring to the traditional Japanese concept of duty and obligation in social relationships.
A core Japanese concept meaning duty, obligation, or debt of gratitude. Often contrasted with '人情' (ninjō, human feeling). Essential for understanding social expectations in Japan.
義理と人情の間で悩む。
I'm torn between duty and personal feelings.
The combination of duty and human compassion. Often used to describe the traditional Japanese value system.
義務感 (gimukan) is a feeling of moral obligation, often internal. 責任感 (sekininkan) is a sense of responsibility, often tied to a specific role or task. Use 義務感 for abstract duty, and 責任感 for accountability.
Direct translations like '義務' (gimu) can sound stiff or legalistic. In casual conversation, it's often more natural to use phrases like 'やらなきゃいけない' (I have to do it) or '仕方なく' (reluctantly) to express acting out of obligation.
彼は義理人情に厚い人だ。
He is a person with a strong sense of duty and compassion.