1.
serious; earnest; in earnest; genuine
Describes a sincere, focused attitude toward something, with full commitment and no joking around. Used for both people's demeanor and the nature of situations.
Originally refers to a real sword (真剣 = real blade, as opposed to a practice sword). By extension, it means doing something with full seriousness, as if handling a real sword. Very commonly used in everyday Japanese.
Common collocations
- 真剣な表情: a serious expression
- 真剣に取り組む: to tackle seriously
- 真剣に考える: to think seriously
- 真剣勝負: a serious contest; a real fight
- 真剣交際: a serious (romantic) relationship
Similar words
- 本気の: serious / for real — more casual; emphasizes genuine intent rather than outward demeanor
- 真面目な: serious / diligent — describes a personality trait of being earnest and hardworking
- 深刻な: serious / grave — describes a serious situation or problem, not a person's attitude
Etymology
Literally "real sword" (真 = true + 剣 = sword). The metaphor comes from martial arts: using a real sword demands total concentration, unlike practice with wooden swords.