1.
will, volition
The mental faculty by which one decides on actions. Determination to do something.
意志 refers to a person's will, determination, or resolve — the inner drive to act or achieve something. It emphasizes firmness of purpose.
Common collocations
- 意志が強い: strong-willed
- 意志が弱い: weak-willed
- 意志を持つ: to have a will/determination
- 自分の意志で: of one's own will
- 意志を貫く: to carry through one's will
- 意志表示: declaration of intent
Kanji distinction
- 意志 (志): will, volition — emphasizes determination and resolve
- 意思 (思い): intention, mind — emphasizes what one thinks or intends
- Example: 意志が強い (strong-willed) vs. 意思表示 (expression of intent)
In practice, 意志 focuses on firmness and character, while 意思 focuses on one's wishes or intentions in a specific situation.