(こくみんせい)

こくみんせい
noun
national character, national traits
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.
To think about the national character of the Japanese.
Diligence is said to be a national trait of this country.
Understanding differences in national character is the first step in cross-cultural communication.

Usage

国民性(こくみんせい) 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 (せい) here means "nature" or "character."

Common collocations