1.
native Japanese words; words of Japanese origin
Words that originated in the Japanese language before the introduction of Chinese loanwords (漢語) and Western loanwords (外来語). Also called 和語. These words are typically read with kun'yomi when written in kanji.
Usage
大和言葉 (also written 和語) refers to the indigenous vocabulary of Japanese, as distinct from 漢語 (Sino-Japanese words borrowed from Chinese) and 外来語 (Western loanwords).
Examples of 大和言葉:
大和言葉 tends to convey softer, more emotional nuances compared to 漢語, which often sounds more formal or technical. For instance, 思いやり (大和言葉) vs 配慮 (漢語) — both mean consideration/thoughtfulness, but the native word feels warmer.