差(さ)し入(い)れ

さしいれ
noun
gift; treat; refreshments (for workers); care package
1. gift; treat; refreshments (for workers); care package
food, drinks, or small gifts brought to people who are working hard, such as coworkers staying late, performers, or students studying
残業(ざんぎょう)している同僚(どうりょう)に差(さ)し入(い)れを持(も)っていった。
I brought some treats for my colleagues who were working overtime.
ファンから差(さ)し入(い)れが届(とど)いた。
Gifts arrived from fans.
差(さ)し入(い)れのお菓子(かし)をみんなで分(わ)けた。
We shared the snacks that were brought for us.

FORMATION:
差(さ)す (to insert/give) + 入(い)れる (to put in) → something given/put in (for others)

CULTURAL CONTEXT:

差(さ)し入(い)れ is a thoughtful gesture in Japanese culture, showing appreciation and support for people who are working hard. Common occasions include:

  • Office overtime work
  • School club activities
  • Theater/concert backstage
  • Moving day helpers
  • Hospital visits

COMMON ITEMS:

  • お菓子(かし) (snacks/sweets)
  • 飲(の)み物(もの) (drinks)
  • おにぎり (rice balls)
  • サンドイッチ (sandwiches)
  • コーヒー (coffee)

VERB FORM:

  • 差(さ)し入(い)れる (to bring a gift/treat)
  • 差(さ)し入(い)れをする (to give a 差(さ)し入(い)れ)

NOTE:
Also has a legal meaning of delivering items to people in custody/prison, but this usage is less common in everyday conversation.

RELATED:

  • 手土産(てみやげ) (gift when visiting)
  • 陣中見舞(じんちゅうみま)い (care package during busy times)
  • お見舞(みま)い (get-well gift)
general
Added 2026.1.25 20:45
08000/08294_sashiire