1.
to be considerate; to show concern for others; to be attentive to someone's feelings or needs
Describes the act of paying careful attention to another person's comfort, feelings, or situation and adjusting one's behavior accordingly.
A very common expression describing social attentiveness. Unlike simple politeness, 気を遣う implies actively thinking about what others need or feel and modifying one's behavior. It can be seen as a positive trait, but overuse (気を遣いすぎる) is often described as exhausting.
Common patterns
- 気を遣いすぎる: to be overly considerate
- 気を遣わせる: to make someone feel they need to be attentive
- 気を遣わなくていい: you don't need to be so considerate
- 気遣い: consideration; thoughtfulness (noun form)
Similar words
- 気を配る: to be watchful; to pay attention — focuses on being alert to surroundings rather than adjusting behavior for someone's comfort
- 思いやる: to be sympathetic; to empathize — emphasizes emotional understanding rather than behavioral adjustment
- 気にかける: to be concerned about — focuses on worry or thinking about someone, not necessarily acting on it
Related Words
Compare:
気を配る (to be watchful)
Compare:
思いやる (to be sympathetic)
Compare:
気にかける (to be concerned about)
Compare:
配慮する (to give consideration)