1.
national character, national traits, national temperament
The characteristic qualities, values, or behavioral tendencies perceived as typical of the people of a particular nation. Often discussed in cultural comparisons and essays about national identity.
日本人の国民性について考える。
To think about the national character of the Japanese.
勤勉さはこの国の国民性と言われている。
Diligence is said to be a national trait of this country.
国民性の違いを理解することは、異文化コミュニケーションの第一歩だ。
Understanding differences in national character is the first step in cross-cultural communication.
USAGE:
国民性 is commonly used in essays, cultural discussions, and media commentary. While useful for discussing broad cultural tendencies, it is important to note that the concept involves generalizations. The suffix 性 here means "nature" or "character."
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 国民性の違い: differences in national character
- 国民性を反映する: to reflect national character
- 日本の国民性: the national character of Japan