内輪
Meanings
noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
family circle; in-group; one's own circle
Refers to a close, familiar group such as family, friends, or colleagues, often with a nuance of privacy or exclusivity.
It's just a get-together among close friends, so please come casually.
Let's keep that story a secret just within our circle.
noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
private matters; internal affairs
Used for issues or matters that are kept within a group and not disclosed to outsiders.
Please don't leak the company's internal problems to outsiders.
Due to personal circumstances, I'm sorry but I can't participate this time.
na-adjective, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', noun
conservative; moderate; on the low side
Describes an estimate, figure, or statement that is deliberately cautious or understated, often to avoid exaggeration.
Even a conservative estimate puts the cost at at least one million yen.
He always understates things, so the reality is probably much more impressive.
pigeon toe; in-toeing
Refers to a walking style where the toes point inward. Often used in contrast with 外輪 (そとわ, duck-footed walking).
See also: 外輪 (そとわ)
In-toeing in children often corrects itself naturally as they grow.
Usage patterns
- 内輪で〈動詞〉to do something privately, just among one's own circle
We celebrated the marriage quietly, just among family and close friends.
- 内輪の〈事〉a matter kept within the group, not disclosed to outsiders
That's an internal matter, so I can't go into details.
- 内輪に見積もるto estimate conservatively, on the low side
It's better to estimate the costs conservatively.
- 〈数〉は内輪だa figure is understated or on the cautious side
I think that figure is conservative; the real number must be higher.