思い
Meanings
Refers to the act or content of thinking; what comes to mind.
A good thought suddenly came to mind.
The inner world of ideas, images, and emotional awareness; often used in expressions like 思いを巡らす (to let one's thoughts wander).
He let his imagination wander to a distant country.
desire; wish; hope; expectation
A personal want or hope for something; can be a simple wish or a stronger expectation.
She has a strong desire to study abroad.
Romantic or deep affection; often appears in the pattern A思いのB (B who loves A).
He is a kind person who cares deeply for his girlfriend.
General emotional state or heartfelt sentiment; can also refer to a memorable experience when used in phrases like いい思い出.
I received a letter filled with his feelings.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉に思いを寄せるto have romantic feelings for someone
She has feelings for her coworker.
- 思いを込めるto put one's heart into something
My mother wrote the letter with all her heart.
- 〈事〉に思いを巡らすto let one's thoughts wander over something
I let my thoughts wander over old memories.
- 思いにふけるto be lost in thought
He was lost in thought, gazing out the window.
- 思いを遂げるto fulfill one's wish or desire
She fulfilled her long-held dream and became a painter.