1.
spirit; determination; mettle; attitude
A person's spirited attitude, determination, or willingness to take on a challenge. Conveys admiration for someone's resolve or generous disposition.
その心意気はすばらしい。
That spirit is wonderful.
職人の心意気を感じる仕事だ。
This is work where you can feel the craftsman's spirit.
若い人たちの心意気に期待して、プロジェクトを任せることにした。
Counting on the young people's determination, I decided to entrust the project to them.
A warm, positive word that expresses admiration for someone's inner resolve and generous attitude. Often associated with the spirit of Edo-period townspeople (江戸っ子) and traditional craftsmanship. It suggests not just determination but a willingness to act with integrity and generosity.
FORMATION:
心 (heart, mind) + 意気 (spirit, enthusiasm)
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 心意気を見せる: to show one's spirit
- 心意気に感じる: to be moved by someone's spirit
- 心意気がいい: to have a fine spirit
- 心意気を買う: to appreciate someone's determination
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 意気込み: enthusiasm, eagerness — focuses on the energy before starting something
- 気概: spirit, backbone — stronger, emphasizes courage in the face of adversity
- 志: aspiration, ambition — focuses on goals and purpose rather than attitude