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かいがいしい Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Freq. Frequency Top 100,000 Conjugation Meanings 1
i-adjective
brisk and efficient ; diligent ; devoted ; spirited
usually written using kana alone
Describes someone who works quickly, attentively, and wholeheartedly, often with a sense of cheerful dedication. Commonly used for housework, caregiving, or small tasks done without being asked.
I was impressed by his/her diligent and spirited way of working.
Written forms かいがいしい Usage 52%
Usually written in kana; the kanji form 甲斐甲斐しい is rare and may not be recognized by many readers.
甲斐甲斐かいがい しい Usage 48%
Kanji spelling is occasionally seen but uncommon; the kana form is strongly preferred.
Kanji 甲 armor, high (voice), A grade Similar words てきぱき てきぱき focuses on speed and crisp efficiency, while かいがいしい adds a nuance of warm, devoted attentiveness.
まめまめしい まめまめしい emphasizes steady, conscientious diligence, often in a quiet, unassuming way, whereas かいがいしい implies more visible, spirited activity.
Etymology Derived from 甲斐 (かい, 'worth, effect') reduplicated and adjectivized with しい. The exact historical development is uncertain, but the word conveys the idea of actions that are worthwhile and effective.
