Meaning

Primary

Important

Alternatives

Precious, Valuable

Word Type

noun, な adjective

Explanation

Think back to the old old olden days. Back when decisions were made with swords. A big cut is going to be important. Just imagine a couple samurai squaring off, then charging, then making one big cut. It's the most important thing they'll do in their lives (if they live!).

Reading

たいせつ
Kyoko
(Tokyo accent, female)
Kenichi
(Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

This is a jukugo word, which usually means on'yomi readings from the kanji. Since has two on'yomi readings, here's a mnemonic to help you remember which one to use:

It's extremely important to keep your ties in sets (たいせつ). If you don't arrange them neatly in sets, the tie police might just come knocking at your door and take you with them!

Context

Patterns of Use

  • 大切に〜
  • 大切な〜
  • 〜大切

Common Word Combinations

  • 大切になる
    to become Important
    大切に思う
    to feel important
    大切にする
    to cherish
  • 大切な人
    an important person
    大切なもの
    important things
    大切なこと
    what's important
  • とても大切
    very important
    いちばん大切
    the most important
    すごく大切
    so important

Context Sentences

これは、メアリーが大切にしている人ぎょうです。

This is the doll that Mary treats with a great deal of care.

そばにいてくれる友人やこい人、かぞくを大切にした方がいいですよ。

You should cherish your friends, partner, and family who stand by you.

大切なしょるいときくと、いつも中みをみたくなる。

Whenever I hear that a document is very important, I always want to look at what’s inside.

Kanji Composition