営み
Meanings
Broadly refers to the act of carrying out an activity, often with a sense of purposeful effort. Common in formal or written contexts.
Daily activities support society.
Refers to one's livelihood or professional activities. Often used in a somewhat formal or literary tone.
He devotes himself to the family business.
Euphemistic use, often in literary or indirect contexts. Not used in casual conversation.
Marital relations were considered sacred.
Rare and somewhat archaic; refers to making arrangements or preparations. Mostly found in older texts.
Preparations for the festival were carried out by all the villagers.
Usage patterns
- 命の営みthe activities/processes of life (often biological or reproductive)
In the natural world, the workings of life quietly continue.
- 日々の営みthe day-to-day activities (of life)
There is small happiness within the routine of daily life.
- 営みを続けるto continue one's activities/way of life
They continue their self-sufficient way of life deep in the mountains.
Expressions
- 夜の営みsexual intercourse; sex