Meaning
to reflect; to reconsider; to look back on; to learn from one's mistakes
Nuance & Usage
反省する means to reflect on one's past actions, especially mistakes, with the goal of improvement. It carries a sense of moral self-examination rather than simple regret. 深く反省する (to deeply reflect), 自分の行動を反省する (to reflect on one's behavior), 反省文 (hanseibun — a written reflection, often assigned as punishment in school) are common uses. In Japanese schools and workplaces, being asked to 反省 is a cultural ritual of acknowledging wrongdoing and committing to change. It is not just saying sorry — it's a process of genuine self-examination.
Common Mistakes
Learners often translate 反省する as simply "to regret" or "to apologize," but it's more specifically about self-reflection and learning. 後悔する (koukai suru — to regret) focuses on wishing something hadn't happened; 反省する focuses on analyzing what went wrong and vowing to improve. Don't use 反省する to mean "to reconsider" in the sense of changing an opinion (use 考え直す, kangaenaoshi, for that). The phrase 反省しています (I'm reflecting on my actions) is used when taking responsibility.
Example Sentences
自分の言い方がよくなかったと反省しています。
じぶんのいいかたがよくなかったとはんせいしています。
I'm reflecting on the fact that the way I said it wasn't good.
試験に落ちたことを反省して、次はもっと計画的に勉強する。
しけんにおちたことをはんせいして、つぎはもっとけいかくてきにべんきょうする。
Reflecting on failing the exam, I'll study more systematically next time.
ミスをしたら、まず反省して次に活かすことが大切です。
みすをしたら、まずはんせいしてつぎにいかすことがたいせつです。
When you make a mistake, it's important to first reflect on it and apply the lesson next time.
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