質
JLPT N4
Quality, matter
Readings
On’yomi: シツ, シチ, チ (shitsu, shichi, chi)
Kun’yomi: たち (tachi)
• たち (tachi) – nature, character (used rarely and more classical)
Structure
Composition:
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Detailed Explanation
Vocabulary
質問
しつもん
question
品質
ひんしつ
quality
性質
せいしつ
nature
物質
ぶっしつ
substance
質問者
しつもんしゃ
questioner
Example Sentences
質問があります。
しつもん が あります。
I have a question.
品質が良いです。
ひんしつ が よい です。
The quality is good.
性質が違います。
せいしつ が ちがいます。
The nature is different.
物質を調べます。
ぶっしつ を しらべます。
I examine the substance.
質問者がいます。
しつもんしゃ が います。
There is a questioner.
Cultural Note
💡 質 embodies one of the core values in Japanese society — the pursuit of quality and authenticity.
• In craftsmanship (職人文化 shokunin bunka), 質の高さ (high quality) is more important than quantity.
• Words like 品質 (quality) and 本質 (essence) are often used in both business and philosophy.
• The kanji’s use in 質屋 (pawn shop) shows its historical meaning — something of real value that could be exchanged or pledged.
In daily life, when Japanese people say 「質がいい」, they mean not only good quality, but also good in essence or character — a reflection of Japan’s respect for true worth.
• In craftsmanship (職人文化 shokunin bunka), 質の高さ (high quality) is more important than quantity.
• Words like 品質 (quality) and 本質 (essence) are often used in both business and philosophy.
• The kanji’s use in 質屋 (pawn shop) shows its historical meaning — something of real value that could be exchanged or pledged.
In daily life, when Japanese people say 「質がいい」, they mean not only good quality, but also good in essence or character — a reflection of Japan’s respect for true worth.