Attaches to the -masu stem of a verb or to a noun to express that the action or thing is worthwhile, produces a satisfying result, or has value. Often used in set phrases like 生きがい (reason for living) or やりがい (sense of fulfillment).
See also: 甲斐 (かい)
This job is rewarding.
She feels her work is worthwhile.
rewarding feeling; sense of fulfillment; worthwhile effort
good-for-nothing; spineless; pathetic; disappointing
one's age; age-appropriate behavior
brisk and efficient; diligent; devoted; spirited
worth doing; rewarding feeling; sense of satisfaction
Standard kanji spelling for this suffix.
Kana spelling is common in everyday writing, especially when the suffix is attached to a verb stem.
Derived from the noun 甲斐 (かい), meaning 'worth' or 'effect'. The reading shifted to がい when used as a suffix.