生き甲斐
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Noun meaning 'reason for living' or 'life's purpose'. It combines 『生き』 (iki, 'living') and 『甲斐』 (kai, 'worth / Effect'), often used to describe a deeply meaningful goal or passion.
Theme

At a café, User and their friend Yoshiko are talking about life goals and passions, with Yoshiko sharing her personal experiences.

生き甲斐

いきがい

something one lives for, very important

Advanced ExpansionAbstract Concepts

Memory Hook

Imagine a 'key' (甲斐 sounds like 'kai' which rhymes with 'key') that unlocks your life's purpose — you live for it! 'Key to life' → 生き甲斐 (ikigai, 'something one lives for').

Cultural Note

In Japanese culture, 『生き甲斐』 (ikigai) is a central concept representing one's reason for being or passion that gives life meaning. It's often discussed in contexts like work, hobbies, and personal fulfillment, and has gained international attention as a philosophy for a happy life.

Forms

Base: 生き甲斐Noun meaning 'reason for living' or 'life's purpose'. It combines 『生き』 (iki, 'living') and 『甲斐』 (kai, 'worth / Effect'), often used to describe a deeply meaningful goal or passion.