1.
need for approval; desire for recognition
The psychological desire to be acknowledged, valued, or praised by others. A concept from psychology (originally linked to Maslow's hierarchy of needs) that has become popular in everyday Japanese, particularly in discussions about social media behavior and self-esteem.
承認欲求が強い。
To have a strong need for approval.
SNSへの投稿は、承認欲求を満たす手段の一つだ。
Posting on social media is one way to satisfy the need for approval.
承認欲求を完全に捨てることは難しいが、他人の評価に振り回されない生き方を目指したい。
It is hard to completely abandon the desire for recognition, but I want to aim for a way of living that is not swayed by others' evaluations.
Composed of 承認 (approval, acknowledgment) and 欲求 (desire, need). Originally a psychology term, it has become a buzzword in contemporary Japanese, especially in conversations about social media (SNS), self-image, and mental health. The phrase often carries a slightly negative nuance, describing behavior driven by craving attention or validation.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 承認欲求が強い: to have a strong need for approval
- 承認欲求を満たす: to satisfy one's need for recognition
- 承認欲求の塊: a person full of craving for approval (critical)
- 承認欲求モンスター: approval-craving "monster" (slang)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 自己顕示欲: desire for self-display — stronger, more negative; craving attention or to stand out
- 自尊心: self-esteem, pride — internal sense of self-worth
- 名誉欲: desire for fame or honor — closer to ambition
- 虚栄心: vanity — wanting to appear impressive to others