Japanese meaning of 温良恭倹
Reading:
おんりょうきょうけん (onryou kyouken)
English Translation:
Gentle, modest, respectful, and frugal
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
Being gentle, modest, respectful, and frugal.
Cultural Context:
Considered a Confucian virtue and often referenced in moral education in Japan.
穏やかで優しく、控えめで敬意を払い、倹約すること。
儒教の徳目の一つとして、日本の道徳教育でも引用されることがある。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase with “な人物” or “な態度” to describe a gentle, respectful character (“温良恭倹な人物”).
• Often used in moral education and historical depictions.
Trap for English Speakers
Might be mistaken as weakness, but it conveys virtuous restraint and dignified modesty.
Example
Basic Example
祖父は温良恭倹の人で、誰からも尊敬されていた。
My grandfather was gentle, respectful, and frugal, respected by all.
Applied Example
温良恭倹な人柄が、激しい場面でも彼を落ち着かせた。
His gentle, respectful, and frugal nature kept him calm even in tense moments.