1.
proactiveness; initiative; assertiveness
The quality of being proactive, taking the initiative, and actively engaging with tasks or situations rather than waiting passively.
積極性が大切だ。
Initiative is important.
彼は仕事に積極性がある。
He shows initiative in his work.
面接では積極性をアピールすることが重要だと言われている。
It is said that demonstrating proactiveness is important in job interviews.
Formed from 積極 (positive, proactive) + 性 (nature, quality). This abstract noun is commonly used in business and educational contexts to describe a valued personal trait — the willingness to take action without being asked.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 積極性がある — to have initiative
- 積極性に欠ける — to lack initiative
- 積極性を見せる — to show proactiveness
- 積極性が足りない — to be lacking in assertiveness
RELATED TERMS:
- 積極的 — proactive, active (na-adjective form)
- 主体性 — autonomy, independence of action; overlaps with 積極性 but emphasizes thinking for oneself
- 消極的 — passive, negative (the opposite attitude)
USAGE:
Often appears in job postings, performance reviews, and school evaluations. 積極性 is consistently listed as a desirable quality in Japanese workplace culture.