How to say "curiosity" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 興味きょうみnounCovers curiosity about something specific — the sense closest to "interest." It points at a particular object that draws your attention, as in having curiosity about a subject, person, or event.
- 好奇心こうきしんnounCovers curiosity as a general disposition: inquisitiveness, the desire to know and explore. It names the trait itself — a child's or scientist's curiosity — rather than interest in one particular thing.
Use 興味 when curiosity means personal interest in a particular thing, and 好奇心 when it means the trait of being inquisitive or eager to learn and explore.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
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