PhraseNinja

Yojijukugo

Japanese meaning of 半信半疑

Reading:

はんしんはんぎ (hanshin hangi)

English Translation:

Skeptical / Doubtful

Meaning & Cultural Context

Meaning:

To be uncertain or skeptical about something, feeling a mix of doubt and belief at the same time. This phrase expresses an inability to trust completely.
日本語で読む
完全には信じきれず、どこかに疑いや迷いの気持ちが残っている状態。

Cultural Context:

From Chinese classics, the phrase appears in literature, journalism, and conversation when expressing cautious skepticism.
日本語で読む
中国古典に由来し、文学、報道、会話などで慎重な懐疑心を示す際に使われる。

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

• Noun phrase used with “で〜する” to indicate acting while unsure.
日本語で読む
• 確信と疑いが半々の状態を「〜で〜する」として使う。

Trap for English Speakers

May be mistaken as a fixed opinion of 50% certainty, when it can imply shifting doubt.
日本語で読む
常に50%の確信という固定状態と誤解され、揺れ動く疑念のニュアンスを見落とす。

Example

Example 1Basic Example

  1. 彼の話を半信半疑で聞いた。

    I listened to his story half convinced, half doubtful.

Example 2Applied Example

  1. 「本当に勝てるのか？」半信半疑のまま、それでも彼は前に進んだ。

    Can we really win? Still half in doubt, he moved forward.

Quick check

Meaning

What does 「半信半疑」 mean?

More questions: Yojijukugo quiz →