自主性(じしゅせい)

A compound of 自主(じしゅ) (self-directed, voluntary) and 性(せい) (nature, quality). Describes the personal quality of being able to act and decide independently. Central to Japanese educational philosophy, especially in discussions about child-rearing and school culture.

Usage

Very common in education, parenting, and business contexts. Often paired with verbs like 育(そだ)てる (to cultivate), 尊重(そんちょう)する (to respect), and 重(おも)んじる (to value). Frequently contrasted with situations where people only follow instructions.

Common collocations

• 自主性(じしゅせい)を育(そだ)てる — to foster independence
• 自主性(じしゅせい)を尊重(そんちょう)する — to respect autonomy
• 自主性(じしゅせい)に任(まか)せる — to leave to someone's initiative
• 自主性(じしゅせい)に欠(か)ける — to lack initiative

Similar words

• 主体性(しゅたいせい) — agency, proactiveness (stronger emphasis on being the driving force)
• 自立(じりつ) — self-reliance, independence (more about practical self-sufficiency)
• 自発性(じはつせい) — spontaneity, voluntariness (emphasis on doing things without prompting)