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Ikigai

2 stages from Japanese to English.

Today it means a Japanese concept describing one's sense of purpose or reason for living

Where does the word "ikigai" come from? It comes from Japanese ikigai, adopted directly into English (2010s).

ikigai→ikigai

Japanese · 20th century

"a reason for being; what makes life worthwhile"

combining 'iki' (life) and 'kai' (worth/effect), naming one's sense of purpose

English · 2010s

"a personal sense of purpose that gives life meaning"

popularized by self-help and wellness writers seeking a Japanese framework for purpose

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