無念
Meanings
1
noun, na-adjective, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
regret; chagrin; mortification
Expresses deep regret or frustration over an outcome, often when one's efforts fall short. Common in phrases like 無念に思う or 無念の涙.
I am filled with regret at missing the championship.
He hung his head in apparent chagrin.
2
freedom from obstructive thoughts
Buddhist term for a state of mind free from delusive or distracting thoughts; contrasted with 有念 (unen). Rare outside specialized contexts.
See also: 有念
In Zen practice, one aims for the state of freedom from obstructive thoughts.
Usage patterns
- 〈事〉を無念に思うto feel bitter regret about something
He felt bitter regret about losing the match.
- 無念の涙を流すto shed tears of frustration/regret
Having lost the final, the players shed tears of bitter regret.
Expressions
- 無念を晴らすtake revenge; avenge; settle a score