1.
perception, sensitivity, tact, intuition
The ability to sense or understand others' feelings, situations, or unspoken intentions without being told directly. A key concept in Japanese interpersonal communication.
察し is the noun form of 察する (to sense, to perceive). It describes the ability to read between the lines and understand what is not explicitly stated.
Common collocations
- 察しがいい (perceptive, quick to pick up on things)
- 察しが悪い (insensitive, slow to pick up on things)
- 察しがつく (to be able to guess/sense)
- お察しします (I can imagine how you feel — polite expression of empathy)
Cultural note
察し is considered a core aspect of Japanese communication style. Japanese culture places high value on being able to understand others' feelings and intentions without explicit verbal expression. Being described as 察しがいい is a significant compliment, while 察しが悪い can be a pointed criticism.