1.
pain and pleasure; hardship and joy
The experiences of suffering and happiness; the ups and downs of life.
苦楽 combines 苦 (pain, suffering) and 楽 (pleasure, ease) to represent the full range of life experiences. It is a somewhat literary compound often used in reflective or philosophical contexts.
Common expressions
- 苦楽を共にする: to share joys and sorrows (together)
- 苦楽を分かち合う: to share in each other's hardships and joys
- 苦楽を経験する: to experience both hardship and joy
- 苦楽を味わう: to taste both suffering and pleasure
Usage
Typically used when speaking about life in broad terms or about bonds forged through shared experiences. The phrase 苦楽を共にする is especially common for describing close relationships such as married couples, teammates, or lifelong friends.