境遇(きょうぐう)

きょうぐう
noun
circumstances, situation in life, lot
1. circumstances, situation in life, one's lot
The overall conditions or situation a person finds themselves in, especially regarding social standing, family background, or life circumstances. Often carries a nuance of fate or conditions beyond one's control.
似(に)た境遇(きょうぐう)の人(ひと)と出会(であ)った。
I met someone in similar circumstances.
境遇(きょうぐう)に負(ま)けずに努力(どりょく)を続(つづ)けた。
I kept working hard without giving in to my circumstances.
子供(こども)の頃(ころ)の厳(きび)しい境遇(きょうぐう)が彼(かれ)の性格(せいかく)に大(おお)きな影響(えいきょう)を与(あた)えた。
The harsh circumstances of his childhood had a great impact on his personality.

USAGE:
Often used when discussing hardship, inequality, or the influence of life conditions on a person's character or fate. Carries a somewhat literary or formal tone and implies conditions that shape a person's life rather than temporary situations.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 厳(きび)しい境遇(きょうぐう): harsh circumstances
  • 恵(めぐ)まれない境遇(きょうぐう): unfortunate circumstances
  • 境遇(きょうぐう)に負(ま)けない: not give in to one's circumstances
  • 同(おな)じ境遇(きょうぐう): same circumstances
  • 境遇(きょうぐう)を乗(の)り越(こ)える: overcome one's circumstances

SIMILAR WORDS:
境遇(きょうぐう) emphasizes life conditions that shape who someone is. 環境(かんきょう) (environment) is broader and includes physical surroundings. 状況(じょうきょう) (situation) is more neutral and temporary.

general
Added 2026.2.20 13:56
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