The Meaning of jishin [自信] In Japanese

自信
じしん
Romaji: jishin N3

What does 自信 mean?

Translation and Meaning

self-confidence, confidence in oneself

Definition

It means self-confidence. It denotes a belief in one’s abilities or judgment and an inner assurance that one can handle tasks, challenges, and decisions with steadiness.

Type

noun (名詞)

Stroke Order

Meanings

  • Self-belief in one’s abilities
  • Approach to tasks with calm assurance
  • A steady, confident demeanor in social or professional contexts
  • Sometimes conveys pride or overconfidence depending on tone and context

Composition

  • 自 = self
  • 信 = trust, belief
  • 自信 = combination of self and belief to indicate belief in oneself

Usage

Used as a noun to express belief in one’s abilities, commonly with phrases like 自信がある or 自信を持つ; appropriate in both formal writing and everyday speech; appears in work, education, sports, and personal life contexts.
💡 Tips
Mnemonic: Visualize a shield labeled 自 and 信 facing you, with you standing in the middle; every time you recall 自信, picture trusting yourself in the center.

Variations

  • 自信がある (jishin ga aru) — confidence
  • 自信を持つ (jishin o motsu) — to have/hold confidence
  • 自信過剰 (jishin kajō) — excessive self-confidence
  • 不安 (fuan) — anxiety, lack of confidence

Example Phrases

  • 就職活動中、彼女は自信を持って面接に臨んだ。
    Shuushoku katsudou-chuu, kanojo wa jishin wo motte mensetsu ni nozonda.
    During job-hunting, she faced the interview with confidence.
    Lista:
    • 就職活動中 (shuushoku katsudou-chuu) – during job-hunting
    • 彼女は (kanojo wa) – she (topic marker)
    • 自信 (jishin) – confidence
    • を (wo) – object marker
    • 持って (motte) – holding
    • 面接 (mensetsu) – interview
    • に (ni) – to
    • 臨んだ (nozonda) – faced
    Core point: 「自信」 is a noun; 「自信を持つ」 means ‘to have/hold confidence’; here it describes approaching the interview with confidence.
自信